The first Alpine River Symposium focuses on the Alpine landscape in a broader sense and poses the following questions: What does a healthy Alpine river actually look like? How will Alpine rivers change in the coming years and how do we deal with this? Which developments can we actively influence, proactively avert, and to which must we learn to adapt?
The 1000-year-old border town of Burghausen, whose prosperity and identity have always been closely linked to the Salzach, is inviting scientists and representatives from the eight Alpine countries to exchange ideas at a two-day symposium. The symposium is open to the public and will take place in the TUM Academy Centre Raitenhaslach on the banks of the Salzach from 10-11 August 2024.
Participants can present their work and highlight ways in which the Alpine regions can preserve healthy rivers and a natural environment whilst maintaining economic vitality. The symposium will provide an opportunity to discuss strategies for effectively addressing the challenges of climate change together with agriculture, industry and nature conservation. The aim is to discuss scenarios that ensure that Alpine rivers - exemplified by the Salzach - continue to flourish as living and biodiverse cultural landscapes. In addition to the publicly accessible sessions in the TUM Academy Center, there will be a rich side program, including:
- Film Screening and Discussions: At the Anker Cinema, there will be a film screening with music, a reception, and panel discussions centered on alpine rivers.
- Water Day: Pascal Rößler from Pure Water for Generations will convene a “water day” and lead activities on the Wöhrsee lake and the Salzach River, including stand-up paddle boarding
- Market & Educational Presentations: Organisations like German Alpine Association, the Bund Naturschutz, and sports clubs are invited to host booth and present topics related to the Alps and rivers.
- Photo Exhibition: The Haus der Fotografie will display a photo exhibition from the UNESCO x Onewater photostory contest on “Water, peace and prosperity”.
More information to follow. Save the date!
Cover image by Alpine Rivers Symposium
