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Freudenau, Austria
Positive sustainability aspect
Biodiversity & threatened species The Danube Island Monitoring Programme is investigating the success of habitat restoration and associated ecosystem connectivity along the Danube in Vienna.
The Danube in the region of Vienna is a braided river system on a floodplain. Since the 17th century there have been efforts to control the Danube, mainly to provide flood protection. A main channel was created in the 1870’s, while some flow remained on the floodplain. This was increasingly felt to be ineffective for flood protection. The excavation of the “New Danube” commenced in 1972, with excess material used to construct the 21 km long “Danube Island” between the Danube and the New Danube. However, over time the water table was found to be decreasing and damage was noted in the foundations of bridges and other heavy structures. Similarly the riparian Prater woods were beginning to show symptoms of dehydration.
Freudenau hydropower Plant was constructed after much consultation – it is situated in the centre of Vienna and the Danube Island is a much visited recreation area. Flood protection, groundwater management and ecological considerations were incorporated into the design.
