5th Youth Climate Conference at the House of Digitalization

The House of Digitalization in Tulln was the center of dialogue this week during the 5th Youth Climate Conference. Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner and Deputy Governor Stephan Pernkopf spoke with young people who used the conference to develop climate protection ideas.

"When it comes to climate change, sustainability, and greening, you can never have enough discussion and debate. I consider this absolutely crucial and necessary," said Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, adding: "Climate change is the greatest challenge of our time, and it affects everyone. Therefore, it is important to me that there is a culture of appreciation and respect in the discussion, that the generations are not blamed and divided against each other, but rather that there is cooperation in the debate and in defining measures."

The state of Lower Austria is implementing its 350-measure climate roadmap step by step, which defines, among other things, the reduction of CO2 emissions and the expansion of renewable energy as concrete goals. “We are proud that we produce 40 percent of all of Austria’s wind and solar energy right here in Lower Austria. That’s a good figure, but we are aiming to triple our wind power output and double our photovoltaic output,” she emphasized, adding: “We have a lot to do; speed is of the essence. Because every measure counts in our fight against climate change.”

Deputy Governor Stephan Pernkopf stated that digitalization is already helping to save energy and that research is helping to create new forms of energy: “This is the path we should take. We have already achieved a great deal, but we shouldn’t rest on our laurels. We have a strong foundation because we have always produced a lot of energy from hydropower; now we are focusing on photovoltaics and wind power, and we want to expand these significantly.” According to Pernkopf, it is important to take action: “80,000 people in Lower Austria have already installed a photovoltaic system, and this year, for the first time, we have more biofuel heating systems than gas heating systems.” He also referred to citizen participation projects in Lower Austria, which allow those who, for example, live in apartments and don't have their own roof space available for photovoltaic systems to participate.

Christian Redl also spoke, giving a keynote address on motivation and inspiration, pointing out that small changes can have a big impact. Afterwards, the young people discussed topics such as the circular economy, sustainability, the village of the future, and energy in fishbowl sessions with experts, as well as with Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner and Deputy Governor Peter Pernkopf. The event concluded with a TikTok challenge supported by social media influencers Linda Lime, Michi Skopek, Austrian Kiwi Jonathan Blachin, and Sona Grant.

© Office of the Lower Austrian Provincial Government