The Brenner Base Tunnel - a new link through the Alps

30 The construction of the Brenner Base Tunnel also intrudes into the habitats of animals and plants, particularly in the areas of excavation landfills. Most areas are only subject to temporary impacts and will be subsequently restored to their original state. Protection of flora and fauna Other hydro-ecologically relevant accompanying parameters, (e.g. pH, ammonium nitrogen, turbidity, etc.), are also constantly monitored using continuous measurements and sampling of daily composite samples which are analysed by a state-accredited testing and inspection body to ensure verification of compliance with statutory limits. The measurements will be continually forwarded to the authorities. All the continuously acquired param- eters can be seen in real time using online monitoring. Mountain and tunnel waters impacted by construction activates are cleaned according to legal regulations, cooled, and only then discharged into the receiving waters. Water flowing from the tunnel is purified in water pollution control plants located at the respective site areas. Water collected from the tunnel during the construction period passes through a water protection system (GSA) and is cleaned and cooled before discharge to receiving waters. Tunnel drainage waters All water from the tunnel will be treated in the water protection systems. Bats have become increasingly rare and need special preservation measures – including the brown long- eared bat (Plecotus auritus), one of 24 species of bat in Tyrol. Before works began in the Padaster valley, BBT SE carried out widespread monitoring of the environ- mental situation. For the preservation of this species of bat, nesting boxes have been installed around the spoil disposal site.