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Crowdfunding solutions to ensure peatland preservation

Crowdfunding for the Hochmoor Schrems nature park is transforming peatland conservation in Lower Austria. These community-led initiatives are reshaping preservation approaches and supporting a more sustainable future.

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Details

Publication date
21 June 2024
Author
Directorate-General for Climate Action
Country
Austria

Description

Key Learnings

  • Raising funds and awareness: Both individuals and businesses contributed to the campaign, highlighting the widespread commitment in the preservation of natural habitats. Initiatives like the "Förderkreis Hochmoor Schrems" not only raise funds but also awareness about environmental challenges and the significance of peatland preservation, fostering a sense of collective responsibility among the public.
  • Collaboration: Collaboration between the non-profit COMÚN foundation, the local government, and other stakeholders has been essential for the success of the project.
  • Funding: Diversified funding sources such as donations from individuals, businesses, and municipal contributions increased the financial resilience of the conservation project.

Summary

In order to preserve the Hochmoor Schrems, the initiative started a crowdfunding campaign, raising awareness about the crucial role peatland preservation plays in mitigating climate change and biodiversity conservation among the public and engaging different stakeholders. The efforts resulted in financial support from various sources to preserve the peatland. The successful crowdfunding in Hochmoor Schrems highlights the importance of collaboration and broad engagement. Efforts from the non-profit COMÚN foundation, the local government, and other partners not only gathered support from the local level but also nationwide, aided by extensive media coverage. This led to widespread recognition of individual responsibility and the pivotal role the peatlands in Hochmoor Schrems play for the entire country. To replicate this success, it is necessary to involve decision-makers and public authorities, promote stakeholder engagement, and leverage media platforms to disseminate information and mobilise the public. Ultimately, initiatives like this aim to cultivate a shared commitment to nature conservation going beyond collecting donations.

Contact

Organisation: UnterWasserReich – Naturpark Hochmoor Schrems Betriebs GmbH

Email: infoatunterwasserreich [dot] at

A green swamp area

Files

  • 21 JUNE 2024
Adaptation Story - Crowdfunding solutions to ensure peatland preservation, Austria