Environmental protection has been a top priority since the construction of the Brenner Base Tunnel began. An example are the so-called compensation measures, i.e. measures that our company implements to minimise or compensate the impact that the tunnel construction works create in the project area.
Some examples of compensation works that BBT SE has implemented are re-naturalization measures for streams and recreational areas near the project area.
Re-naturalization measures for streams and recreational areas near the project area
Works to widen the Isarco riverbed and restore a more natural river structure near Varna, Fortezza, Campo di Trens, Val di Vizze and Vipiteno not only allow for the recovery of more natural habitats, but also make sure that the area is more resilient in the event of flooding. In addition, the restoration of the Kircherau biotope near Vipiteno was completed after the 2012 flood.
In 2016, BBT SE, in cooperation with the Forestry Department of the city of Innsbruck, carried out a major renaturation project on the Tantegert marshes: this is an area covering approximately 1.5 hectares and located near the Ambras Castle on the Paschberg mountain in close proximity to the capital of Tyrol.
As part of these measures, the water level in the marsh area was raised by 30 centimetres, two new ponds were created and an area was created for the natural restoration of the region’s flora and fauna.
These measures made it possible to revitalise the meadow surrounding the marsh, which is rich in interesting species and plants, and to improve access to the hiking trail with a scenic observation point that the City of Innsbruck has created in the area surrounding the marsh.
Caring for the environment: a constant feature of the BBT project
Environmental consciousness in the BBT project is not limited to the many compensation works that have been carried out or are being carried out.
The Padaster valley, a ‘V’-shaped valley in which the largest disposal site in the project area is now located, will in future be returned to the community as a ‘U’-shaped valley, replanted with greenery. The valley floor will be higher and the sides less steep and thus more suitable for agricultural activities and grazing animals.
BBT SE’s goal, in conclusion, is to build a railway infrastructure that promotes sustainable mobility not only between Innsbruck and Fortezza, but also between northern and southern Europe. At the same time, it is essential to adopt specific and targeted measures to protect the specific features of our regions.
