Environment
Latest news from Austria on the environment, climate, climate change and green issues.
Solar eclipse sparks scramble for protective glasses across Europe
The scramble for protective glasses has reached fever pitch across Europe ahead of Wednesday's rare total solar eclipse, as pharmacies, opticians and other shops struggle to keep them in stock.
Most beaches in Europe offer 'excellent' water quality, study says
The vast majority of Europe's beaches offer "excellent" water quality for swimming, the EU environment agency said on Tuesday ahead of the summer season, with coastal nations and inland Austria topping the list.
Why Austria’s dry spring could affect farms, food and water this summer
Austria’s dry spring affected farms, with some hay harvests sharply down and pressure building on rivers, groundwater and fields.
EU anti-waste law: New laptops sold in Europe must now use USB-C chargers
After standardising chargers for mobile phones, from Tuesday new computers sold in EU countries must also use the USB-C charging point, as the latest phase of EU anti-waste legislation comes into force.
Tick season in Austria: How to protect yourself from TBE and Lyme disease
Tick season has arrived in Austria, bringing increased risk of serious illnesses like TBE and Lyme disease. Here’s how to protect yourself, your children and your pets.
Where in Austria are pollen levels the highest?
In Austria, one in every six people suffers from allergies, with pollen allergies being the most common form. Here is everything you need to know about them.
Pollution exposure in Europe linked to mental health problems
Environmental pollution is linked to several mental health disorders in Europe, the European Environment Agency (EEA) has warned, arguing that enforcing legislation would result in Europeans being both less depressed and less anxious.
Why Austria keeps slipping in global climate rankings
Austria has fallen in a major climate ranking despite strong renewables. Why are emissions, transport and weak policy still holding the country back?
Austria greenlights motorway project despite environmental objections
Austria’s government announced it will move forward with a controversial motorway project that includes a tunnel under a national park, in a decision strongly opposed by environmental groups.
Moose on the loose: Austria deports famous elk after weeks on the run
A young male elk known as Emil has been captured in Austria and taken to the border with the Czech Republic after spending the summer roaming across central Europe.
'Unfair privilege': Flights in Europe up to 26 times cheaper than train routes
Environmental campaign group Greenpeace has slammed the fact that budget flights between destinations in Europe are still often significantly cheaper than travelling by train.
REVEALED: Where in Europe has the cleanest and dirtiest swimming spots
Europe has thousands of incredible swimming spots around its beaches, lakes and rivers, but which countries have the cleanest and dirtiest waters?
Travellers from Europe banned from taking meat and dairy products into UK
The British government has introduced temporary restrictions on travellers from European countries from bringing meat and dairy produce – even in sandwiches – into the country.
German climate activist faces expulsion from Austria after two-year ban
Austria has banned German climate activist Anja Windl for two years over her protest actions with Last Generation, prompting her to appeal the decision and criticise its democratic implications.
Europe's great rivers hit by 'alarming' microplastic pollution
"Alarming" levels of microplastic have been found in major rivers across Europe according to scientists in 14 studies published simultaneously Monday.
REVEALED: Vienna's ambitious plans for its treasured Donaukanal
A major redesign of the Donaukanal is underway, with plans for food-trucks and pop up restaurants set to scrapped and replaced with green areas, more seating, and sunbathing spots.
What are Vienna’s Repair Cafés and how can you find them?
Vienna’s Repair Cafés offer free repairs for small appliances and textiles, helping residents save money and reduce waste. Here’s how to find them.
Where is the snow? Why Austria is experiencing its driest winter in decades
If you think you've seen less snow this season than in previous years, you're right: Austria is facing a winter with well below-average snowfall. Here's why and what the impacts are on Alpine country.
Could Austria's motorway speed limits increase under a new government?
Austria could see higher motorway speed limits if plans move forward under an FPÖ-led government. Why the proposal is so controversial and what could happen in the future?
Why beer is going to get more expensive in Austria
Beer lovers in Austria will soon notice a key change when purchasing their favourite brews. The adjustment comes as part of a broader effort to promote sustainability and reusable packaging in line with EU regulations.
Austria’s greenhouse gas emissions decline, but challenges remain
Greenhouse gas emissions in Austria dropped to 68.6 million tons in 2023, with progress attributed to climate policies and reduced fossil fuel consumption.
EXPLAINED: Why the EU and China could be heading for a major trade war
EU countries gave a definitive green light on Friday to hefty additional tariffs on electric cars made in China, despite warnings that it will spark a damaging trade war with Beijing.
How to avoid wasps this summer in Austria
Milder winters and springs mean that we could see more wasps around this summer. Here is what you need to know.