Balancing Alpine energy and nature
The Alps have great potential for the use of renewable energy. They can thus make a valuable contribution to mitigating climate change. This, however, means increased pressure on nature. What could be the impact of such changes on the habitats of animals and plants? How do they affect land use and soil quality? How much renewable energy can reasonably be used? The project recharge.green brought together 16 partners to develop strategies and tools for decision-making on such issues. The analysis and comparison of the costs and benefits of renewable energy, ecosystem services, and potential trade-offs were a key component in this process. The project lasted from October 2012 to June 2015 and was co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Alpine Space Programme.