Natural progress
From its mountains to manufacturing, South Tyrol is embracing sustainability at every level.
For those who have hiked the 100-kilometre-long Meran High Mountain Trail with its breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, it will come as no surprise that South Tyrol places the utmost importance on preserving its natural assets by investing in sustainability.
The region’s identity as a forward-thinking economy rooted in innovation is best characterised by this vision. By taking a balanced approach that integrates economic, environmental and social initiatives across all areas of development, the region is piquing international interest with its impressive credentials. One of the leading European lights in sustainable activities, South Tyrol is combining Alpine ecology with innovative green practices. The region believes that to protect its unique landscape it must preserve the delicate ecological balance and use its resources in a more intelligent and sustainable way.
More than 90 per cent of the province’s electricity is obtained from renewable hydropower. Local energy services providers rely upon hydropower, photovoltaics and biomass, while committing to reach net zero by 2040. More than just impressive sustainability credentials, these principles are embedded deep in the regional economy and ensure a better energy infrastructure for businesses and communities.
From an end-user perspective, the industrial manufacturer Durst has demonstrated how heavy industry can proactively invest in on-site renewable generation with one of the largest solar-panel plants in South Tyrol, which satisfies more than 50 per cent of its Bressanone/Brixen site’s energy demand.
