Struggle for more protection

“Soil battle” between the federal government, provinces and municipalities

A battle is raging over Austria's soil. The federal government wants to limit soil consumption to 2.5 hectares per day. This is too ambitious for the federal states and municipalities. Experts are supporting the proposal. "Someone must finally say stop," says Daniel Fügenschuh, President of the Chamber of Civil Engineers. Which country in particular is lagging behind and how the dispute should be resolved.

The Chamber of Civil Engineers is of the opinion that the 2.5 hectares are also too much. "We should make do with what is already sealed, and even re-dedicate it. This is not a self-service store. Just like the air, the land belongs to everyone," said Fügenschuh in an interview with the "Krone" newspaper, criticizing the profiteering with valuable land. The chamber has submitted a corresponding position paper to politicians.