International round table discussion
“Water, Climate Change and the Fertő-Neusiedler See Region”
The 2nd FOSTER event was conducted in Austria, Neusiedl am See during the period 20-21.11.2024. Hosted by Foster Europe Foundation for strong European Regions , the event gathered more than 50 participants. The aim of the round table discussion was to introduce and brainstorm on the necessity to have a forward looking, participative, and transparent approach for future oriented solutions to broader social and economic challenges on a regional but trans-border level.
The first day of the event was dedicated to exploring sustainable water management solutions in the Fertő-Neusiedler See region. The event focused on the unique environment of the National Park, participative governance, and the specific challenges surrounding the lake and its ecosystem. The discussions fostered dynamic dialogue, bringing together diverse perspectives to address climate change, groundwater management, tourism needs, agriculture, and municipal responsibilities. This collaborative approach emphasised the importance of resilience and sustainability in water systems.
During the 2nd day, students from Gymnasium Neusiedl am See took center stage in a dynamic role-playing seminar. Acting as key stakeholders, they were tackling complex water management issues by developing solutions and negotiating compromises.
Stakeholder groups include:
- Agriculture Tourism
- National Park
- Regional Government
- Local Citizens
With guidance from representatives of FOSTER project partners, students are navigating real-world challenges using foresight strategies to create actionable, collaborative solutions.
It’s inspiring to see the next generation of leaders practicing participatory decision-making and working toward sustainable futures!
About the project:
FOSTER – Future Oriented Solutions Toward Environmental Resilience – aims to contribute to the development of governance frameworks that can effectively and inclusively address future environmental challenges at local level, by fostering foresight strategies and preventative local management of climate change-related phenomena. Indeed, during the project, participants build capacity for foreseeing and analyzing future socio-economic needs as consequences of climate change at local level; as well as, co- designing potential solutions bringing together all relevant stakeholders and community representatives at public and private level. Finally, internal online networks are created to share best practices, materials and widely raise the debate of future oriented environmental governance