Although snow is expected in Vienna on Wednesday, Greenpeace is calling on people to avoid spreading salt. There is another way.
According to calculations by environmentalists, 350,000 tons of salt ends up on snowy or icy ground every winter.
“Despite the known dangers, the spread in Austria is still too intensive. Plants and animals suffer enormously from this high effort,” criticizes Greenpeace activist Adam Pawloff.
His concerns: “Salt degrades the soil and reduces its oxygen content. Fruit trees in particular, but also avenue trees such as lime trees or horse chestnuts, react very sensitively and die.” In water, even low concentrations can lead to loss of biodiversity.
Negative effects on animal paws
Veterinarian Astrid Nagl is concerned about the consequences of ‘stray rage’ on the vulnerable paws of dogs and cats. “The pads become dry, cracked and painful,” says the vet.
Without road salt: Some municipalities show this
Some municipalities in Austria, such as the municipalities of Attersee (Upper Austria) and St. Andrä-Wördern (Lower Austria), have already shown that they can largely do without road salt. Bans or strict restrictions already apply in cities such as Graz or Wels.
It is now becoming wintery in eastern Austria with up to ten centimeters of fresh snow.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
