One of the areas that I have realized is an important issue regarding sustainable development in Austria and many other EU countries is the vital link to the Danube River. The river is a focal point for transportation, recreation, commerce, energy, and a source of vitality within many urban centers across its 2,850 kilometer flow. The Danube runs through 10 European countries including Austria, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Moldova. As an example of its importance in Vienna, Austria the Danube takes on four forms, the canal section, the new section, the old section, and a lake section all seperate parts of the river that serve different functions. Below is an article detailing a EU strategy organized in Vienna to promote sustainable development within the Danube River area.
WWF MAP OF DANUBE
I did not realize the extent that the Danube had on the region. The Danube Strategy which was produced by the WWF International is in my opinion a great start.
ReplyDeleteThe economies support would be very successful in supporting more eco tourism and lowering the carbon footprint.
In Vienna they have the opportunities to rent bikes to tour the city and use however you like. While I did not go into the wooded area outside the city, I was told that it was a great opportunity. Those are just some examples of what other countries in the Danube basin can integrate into their economies if they have not already.