The BOKU authors of the Second Austrian Assessment Report on Climate Change call for decisive climate policy
The report examines the causes, manifestations, and consequences of climate change in Austria and outlines pathways to achieving climate neutrality. It makes one thing clear: investments in climate protection and adaptation are significantly more cost-effective in the long term than inaction.
Co-Chair Harald Rieder emphasizes:
"Forward-looking, systematically planned climate protection pays off – ecologically, economically, and socially. The climate crisis is not a future scenario; it is already a reality in Austria. Extreme weather events, heat stress, and consequential damages are already causing enormous costs today. The report shows: If we act now, we can limit risks and ensure economic stability. Climate protection is therefore an investment in prosperity, security, and quality of life. The report now provides a solid scientific basis for decisive societal action."
**Co-Chair Harald Rieder**
Institute of Meteorology and Climatology, BOKU
Email: harald.rieder(at)boku.ac.at
Phone: +43 (1) 47654 - 81401
More than 30 BOKU scientists contributed to the report.
### **Austria is warming faster than expected**
"In Austria, we have experienced a very strong temperature increase over the past 50 years. The warming, at 0.5 °C per decade, was significantly stronger than predicted by our climate models. Further warming in the coming decades can no longer be prevented, even if we meet our climate protection targets. However, achieving these targets is essential to enable climate stabilization in the second half of the century," emphasizes Herbert Formayer.
The impacts of warming are diverse:
"Heat stress has increased significantly and is particularly burdensome in urban areas. Increased evaporation is leading to more frequent drought problems, while the risk of heavy rainfall is also rising, as a warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapor.
Significant impacts are also evident in snow conditions. For decades, snow cover has been decreasing at mid-altitudes, which affects winter tourism," says Formayer.
**Coordinating Lead Author of Chapter 1 - Physical and Ecological Manifestations of Climate Change in Austria:**
Herbert Formayer, Institute of Meteorology and Climatology, BOKU
Email: herbert.formayer(at)boku.ac.at
Phone: +43 (1) 47654 - 81415
**Chapter Scientist:** Benedikt Becsi
**Technical Support Unit:** Monika Mayer