Building authorities conference Appenzell Ausserrhoden
End of September 2024, the building authorities conference took place in Walzenhausen, focusing on the topic of "Diverse habitats in settlements". Around 50 representatives from municipal authorities, building authorities and companies discussed the importance of biodiversity in residential areas and exchanged ideas about successful practical examples.
This year’s conference for building authorities, organized by the Cantonal Office for Spatial Planning and Forests, focused on settlement ecology. Cantonal Councillor Dölf Biasotto opened the conference and made the connection to the vision of the 2024-2027 government program, which envisages a significant promotion of biodiversity in residential areas. The municipal building authorities play a central role in achieving these goals.
Inspiring presentations and practical examples
Six expert speakers highlighted various aspects of settlement ecology. The presentations showed how the sustainable design of settlement areas can succeed and provided valuable suggestions for municipalities and companies. The practical examples from Teufen and Gais in particular illustrated how municipalities can successfully integrate biodiversity into their settlements. The combination of green roofs with photovoltaic systems was also discussed and examined from a scientific perspective by Stefan Brenneisen.
Excursion to the wild bee paradise and lively exchange
At the end of the conference, the participants were able to visit the wild bee paradise of JUST Schweiz AG, which serves as a showcase example for the promotion of ecological company environments. At the subsequent drinks reception, the opportunity was taken to further discuss the insights gained and to strengthen networks.
Settlement ecology as a common goal
The 2024 Building Authorities Conference underlined the importance of diverse habitats in settlements for the promotion of biodiversity. The practical examples and specialist presentations provided important impetus for the future design of ecological habitats in municipalities. The event contributed to a valuable exchange of experiences and set clear priorities for the implementation of the government program.