Sustainable South Tyrol

South Tyrol's sustainable sides

From climate-friendly mobility to volunteering with the fire brigade. Sustainability has different elements in South Tyrol.

In the name of sustainability, we are taking the initiative in South Tyrol. We are keeping an eye on the climate, nature and people and are working together towards a sustainable future.worth living. We are already thinking in all directions. We have grouped our activities, projects and measures into four areas: ecological sustainability, economic sustainability, social sustainability and cultural sustainability.
Our commitment to sustainability also benefits our guests who like to travel in a climate-friendly way – for example when staying overnight in accommodation with a sustainability label, eating in a regional restaurant or attending a cultural event. Discover the dimensions of South Tyrolean sustainability!

Ecological sustainability

On our sustainable path, we are focusing on ecological, future-oriented development that preserves the diversity of our living space. The 17 sustainability goals of the United Nations and the Climate Plan 2040 of the province of South Tyrol serve as guidelines for making the regional economy environmentally-friendly. From the protection of unique natural landscapes to the expansion of alternative energy and low-emission mobility, we are focusing our actions on climate targets.

Adaptation to climate change and climate protection

What is the climate like in South Tyrol? Climate Change Monitoring South Tyrol analyses climate change and its effects in our region. Our forest plays an important role in this. Over 50% of South Tyrol's land area is covered by forest. It is a habitat for many animal and plant species, but also a water reservoir, protective cover and local recreation area. Forest Agenda 2030 focuses on native forests as valuable habitats and central elements in the fight against climate change. Almost 60% of forests have a purely protective function, preventing soil erosion at their location. 24% of the forest areas in South Tyrol protect people and infrastructure from landslides, avalanches and flooding from torrents. By maintaining the protective forest, reforestation and the preservation of healthy forests, South Tyrol contributes to the preservation of natural carbon sinks.

Take a deep breath while bathing in the forest

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Armin Terzer

Protecting and restoring biodiversity and ecosystems

We are actively committed to preserving biodiversity. 30% of the province's land area is already under protection, and this proportion is set to increase further by 2030. The focus is on alpine and subalpine ecosystems that are particularly threatened by climate change. Measures such as the renaturalisation of river courses and wetlands play a key role in protecting habitats for animals and plants. In order to restore biodiversity, we are also taking measures against environmentally harmful substances. In agriculture, we are reducing chemical pesticides and fertilisers, promoting environmentally-friendly cultivation practices and working to enable biodiversity in healthy soil and clean water in the long term. The Biodiversity Monitoring programme of the Eurac Research Institute continuously collects data. This allows us to keep an eye on how habitat diversity is developing in South Tyrol.

On the trail of nature

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Patrick Schwienbacher

Using and protecting water resources sustainably

South Tyrol draws its water from the pure springs of the Alps, which gives us some of the highest quality water in Europe. Around 99% of households are connected to the public water supply, and over 100 treatment plants ensure that our water is purified according to strict standards before it is returned to nature. In agriculture, we rely on advanced drip irrigation to utilise water efficiently and conserve our precious resources. Innovative snow production technologies are also being used increasingly in the leisure industry, such as in ski resorts. The water quality of over 3,000 kilometres of watercourses and numerous lakes is constantly monitored in order to protect them as water resources and recreational areas. To ensure that drinking water does not become scarce in the future, monitoring water consumption is one of the most important measures.

Discover our water worlds

IDM Südtirol Alto Adige/F-Tech Production

Control and prevent environmental pollution

The fresh mountain air is one of the hallmarks of South Tyrol, and we are working hard to preserve this air quality and keep the air values in the green zone. Our goal is to significantly reduce air pollution by 2030 by focusing on low-emission technologies and sustainable transport policies. For example, 75% of newly-registered vehicles are to be low-emission, and you can already refuel your electric car with clean energy at 444 public charging points . The South Tyrol Guest Pass, which 90% of our accommodations offer included, entitles you to free use of the local public transport network consisting of 200 bus lines, 4 railway lines and 7 cable cars and funiculars. Switching to cycling is particularly environmentally-friendly – by 2030, we want 20% of daily journeys to be made by bike, and the urban and rural cycle path network is being steadily expanded accordingly.

Environmentally friendly travel

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Helmuth Rier

Energy and construction as leverage for climate protection

South Tyrol has set itself the goal of reducing CO₂ emissions by 55% by 2030 and becoming climate-neutral by 2040 in order to limit the rise in global temperatures. An important step in this direction is the promotion of wind power, hydropower and, above all, photovoltaic systems. By supporting companies and private households to switch to clean energy, the aim is to demonstrably reduce emissions. We also focus on sustainability in the construction industry. Energy-efficient construction projects and the refurbishment of existing buildings lead to significantly lower energy consumption and reduced emissions. The programme particularly promotes passive houses and low-energy buildings, which make an important contribution to reducing the ecological footprint.

How we build today

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Benjamin Pfitscher

Car-free holiday? Yes, you can!

90%

of the accommodations in South Tyrol offer the Guest Pass for free use of public transport.

Find your accommodation

Economic sustainability

South Tyrol is taking up the European Green Deal and focusing its attention on activities that contribute significantly to reducing CO₂ emissions and facilitate the transition to renewable energies. By promoting innovative technologies, resource-saving production methods and the circular economy, we are actively driving the transition to a sustainable economy.

Less waste and more converted recyclables

A functioning circular economy conserves resources, avoids waste and minimises the ecological footprint. South Tyrol is pursuing the goal of increasing the recycling rate to 70% and reducing non-recyclable waste by 20%. To achieve this, we rely on innovative technologies and efficient waste management in order to send less waste to landfill and return more materials to the cycle. We also use sustainable materials and packaging right from the production stage.
In order to transfer the circular principle to the South Tyrolean economy, there are several projects and initiatives that help companies to integrate the principles of the circular economy into their business models. The Circular Food Hub develops solutions to reduce and recycle food waste in order to promote sustainable practices in the food sector. The construction sector also makes a significant contribution to the circular economy: Recycled materials and thepromotion of sustainable timber construction projectsreduce resource consumption and lower emissions.

You show us how

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Stefan Schwabl

Innovative technologies for tomorrow's world

South Tyrol's innovative strength is reflected in skilful craftsmanship, technical precision, maximum functionality and perfect design. The special location at the crossroads of cultures gives rise to ideas here that focus not only on the individual but also on the well-being of the community. Special research projects promote energy-efficiency and sustainable construction methods. In addition, start-ups and companies are supported by funding programmes that focus on climate-friendly technologies and the circular economy. In the agricultural sector in particular, such as the South Tyrolean apple, a cross-regional circular economy model has been developed that improves soil health and develops sustainable solutions for resource conservation.

Focus on regional partnerships and real experiences

Originally, many families lived from agriculture, while tourism became increasingly important. Today, farmers and tourism professionals work hand-in-hand to set sustainable and regional cycles in motion. The agri-tourism synergy is being promoted through measures such as tourismut.com, with the aim that half of the products used in the hotel and catering industry will come from regional production by 2030. The joy of innovation and community building are important drivers in this project. Farm holidays – or agricultural tourism – combine the centuries-old tradition of farming with modern approaches to sustainability. On small farms that have been run for generations, guests can experience at first hand how the region is sustainably farmed.

These people are changing the future

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Patrick Schwienbacher

What we believe in

Biodiversity starts in the hotel garden.

Setting a sustainable example with alternative energy.

Innovative technologies pave the way for change.

More circular economy instead of mountains of waste.

A sustainable future needs social engagement.

The South Tyrol sustainability label

Social sustainability

A vibrant and fair society in which everyone feels they belong and in which our talents are encouraged and the sense of community is strengthened: South Tyrol is already on the right track here, but there is still room for improvement. Cooperation and the commitment of people play a central role in the sustainability strategy, from the promotion of voluntary work to gender equality and the integration of people with disabilities.

Promoting social commitment

Volunteering and voluntary work are central pillars of social sustainability in South Tyrol. Around 160,000 people volunteer in areas such as civil defence, social work, culture and sport. Volunteer fire brigades and mountain rescue services provide indispensable assistance in emergencies in alpine terrain, while around 4,600 clubs across the country, including music clubs, choirs and theatre groups preserve cultural identity andsocial servicessupport the elderly and disadvantaged. Promoting social participation and recognising volunteering are key objectives for making volunteering more visible and securing it in the long term. Specific measures include the Honorary Service Card, which offers discounts at leisure and educational facilities, and the Tyrolean Medal of Merit, which honours outstanding commitment.

What our clubs do

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Frieder Blickle

Barrier-free South Tyrol for all

Involving people with disabilities, older people and socially disadvantaged groups more closely in society characterises our efforts in the area of social sustainability. South Tyrol for All makes visible those accessible places and services which exist to facilitate access to public and tourist offers for people with reduced mobility – and the accessible infrastructure is growing: Public buildings, means of transport and information systems are designed to be accessible to all people. The aim is to increase the employment rate of people with disabilities to 60% by 2030. To this end, support programmes and advisory services, such as the South Tyrolean labour market, offer targeted help. Caritas South Tyrol is committed to the integration of people with disabilities and migrant backgrounds with various services. Special language programmes promote equal opportunities for disadvantaged groups.

IDM Süditirol-Alto Adige/Alex Moling

Improve career opportunities through targeted support programmes

South Tyrol actively promotes gender equality in order to create genuine equal opportunities. A key objective is to increase the proportion of women in management positions to 40% by 2030. In 2022, 11,114 women-owned companies were entered in the commercial register of the Bolzano Chamber of Commerce, accounting for 18.2% of South Tyrolean companies. This figure shows that women are increasingly taking on management positions, but there is still room for improvement. Targeted measures, such as mentoring programmes, reduce discrimination and pave the way for women to reach top positions. The focus is also on equal access to education and the labour market. South Tyrol supports marginalised groups through support programmes and vocational training opportunities in order to overcome social barriers. Initiatives such as the literacy and language courses offered by the provider Alpha Beta Picadilly or qualification measures such as the courses offered by the social cooperative Savera for intercultural mediators are practical examples of how equal opportunities for people with a migration background are promoted.

IDM Süditirol-Alto Adige/Alex Moling

Cultural sustainability

Only those who have roots can grow. With this in mind, we are paving the way for our sustainable development by preserving the cultural characteristics of the region. From the preservation of multilingualism and the maintenance of historical building culture to the celebration of traditional festivals and customs – all of these measures contribute to the preservation of our unique cultural landscape.

Preserving historical building culture for future generations

Rustic farmhouses, stately residences and medieval arbour houses characterise the appearance of South Tyrol and are an integral part of its cultural identity. To preserve them, targeted measures are needed to increase energy efficiency while retaining the traditional building elements. The Atlas from Eurac Research, for example, is designed to provide valuable information on the construction methods of historic houses and the materials used to help find optimal solutions for energy-efficient refurbishment without losing the historic charm of the buildings. In collaboration with the Südtiroler Architekturstiftung and the KlimaHaus Agentur, projects are supported that prioritise both the preservation of the building fabric and ecological sustainability. These measures ensure that South Tyrol's rich history is preserved, while at the same time the buildings are prepared for future use.

A look behind old walls

IDM Südtirol/Alto Adige/Fabian Leitner

A focus on Ladin culture

The autonomy of South Tyrol, secured by the autonomy statute of 1972, protects the linguistic and cultural rights of the three language groups – German, Italian and Ladin. Ladin culture is firmly rooted in the Dolomite valleys of Val Gardena and Val Badia and is characterised by its own language, Ladin, as well as typical customs and traditions. Multilingual education is a cornerstone; this not only ensures the preservation of the language, but also promotes cultural exchange between the language groups. In addition, the promotion of Ladin media, such as radio stations, newspapers and television programmes, plays a decisive role. These initiatives ensure that Ladin remains present in everyday life.

Do you know this language?

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Alex Moling

Cultural heritage needs to be lived

The cultural identity of South Tyrol is closely linked to traditional festivals and customs throughout the year. Many typical events, such as the Egetmann parade in Tramin or the Grape Festival in Merano, have been handed down for generations and are authentic ambassadors of our way of life. There are over 200 music bands in South Tyrol, which is more than there are municipalities. Great enthusiasm is one of the essential elements for this success – another is the targeted financial support of cultural projects and local art initiatives. This includes music clubs, theatre groups and regional craft fairs that contribute to the preservation of traditions and local crafts that are deeply rooted in the history of South Tyrol.

Become part of our tradition

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Alex Moling

What our heart beats for

Quality without sustainability is no longer truly quality. In South Tyrol, we try to follow a path of quality that ensures that people and nature go hand in hand. In doing so, we use our ingenuity and our skills, promote innovation and, above all, rely on our passion to drive us into the future. In tourism and agriculture, but also in mobility, trade and industry. We have started.

Leading by example

A start-up which wants to revolutionise conventional agriculture. A chef against her will who enriches Ladin cuisine. A young brother and sister duo who produce real natural wines. We introduce you to our pioneers.

Back to nature

Being a chef was never her lifelong dream. Now it is the best job in the world for Uli Ties. At the Plazores inn in San Vigilio, she cooks an unconventional, authentic Ladin cuisine by closely following tradition. She does everything herself and draws on ancient natural knowledge. A great skill that earned her the nickname "Stria" (Ladin for witch).

Visit Uli in San Vigilio

The wool artist

The wool comes from their own sheep. Processing is carried out at a spinning mill nearby. She crochets home textiles such as rugs, cushion covers and blankets herself. The wool artist Johanna Aichner implements the principle of local production in exactly her own way.

Common cause

Mountain biker, family man and hotelier. Kurt Resch from Steineggerhof in the Eggental valley wants to change his industry. With small but convincingly sustainable deeds he sets a good example. From construction measures to organic dishes and the common good.

To your pleasure experience

Vegan and happy

When Valeria Caldarelli talks about her business, she does so with healthy idealism. "We knew it wouldn't be easy, but there was no other option." The hotelier, who has been vegan herself since 2005, has realised a project close to her heart with La Vimea in Naturns: The entire hotel is vegan. Regional ingredients take priority in the kitchen.

Discover our regional products

Different to normal

Jakob and Lisa are not conventional vegetable growers. They rely on permaculture without artificial fertilisers or herbicides on their farm in Eppan. They also work the soil as minimally as possible, much of it by hand. Nature directs your everyday life.

Visit our farm shops

The new farmers

The sun is shining outside, everything moves outdoors. Except for Ulrich and Patrick. With their start-up Profarms", the two tech farmers from St. Pauls/Eppan want to revolutionise conventional agriculture – with micro-greens from the lab and enthusiastic chefs as customers.

Products from the region

Two young men in lab coats stand in a room with boxes of small seedlings on the shelves.

Accommodation with the South Tyrol sustainability label

Travelling to places that set sustainable standards. In this type of accommodation, host families take care of their employees, their guests and their surroundings with small and large deeds.

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