Climate Council in Vienna
The Vienna Climate Council will hold its 10th meeting on May 12 and 13. Over the past five years, Vienna has taken numerous climate protection measures to maintain a high quality of life for future generations despite the climate crisis. Important input often came from the Vienna Climate Council, which advised politicians and the administration on major climate policy projects in particular.
From an idea to an established showcase body
The idea of setting up a dedicated climate council arose from the consideration that far-reaching measures are needed for climate protection and to protect the population from the effects of the climate crisis.
Political decision-makers are challenged to find the right balance between effective protective measures and an acceptable degree of change to normal life. This is a task that requires not only a great deal of sensitivity, but also close and respectful cooperation between politicians, administrators, civil society and experts.
The Climate Council has now also been enshrined in law with the Vienna Climate Act, making the body even more important.
Important player for large casts
In the more than five years of its existence, the Vienna Climate Council has repeatedly demonstrated its importance for the entire city. The Vienna Climate Council was involved in:
- The preparation of the Vienna Climate Roadmap adopted by the City Council in 2022, Vienna's guide from the fossil-fuel present to a climate-friendly future.
- The drafting of Austria's first climate law at state level. Experts from the Vienna Climate Council, in particular the ABW, were also substantially involved in this process.
- The creation of the "Raus aus Gas" strategy. The paper discusses in detail how heating buildings in Vienna can function without fossil gas and oil in the future.
- Drawing up the heat action plan, which includes concrete measures to protect people from heatwaves.
