Written by: Birthe Uhlhorn, BOKU

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How can a small rural municipality with limited financial and administrative resources prepare for increasing heat waves, heavy rainfall, and other impacts of climate change?

This question guided a semester-long course at BOKU University, bringing together bachelor’s and master’s students. The course was implemented within the framework of ᴇNᴀBʟS’ Austrian Living Lab in cooperation with the municipality of Zeiselmauer-Wolfpassing. The Living Lab provided the methodological setting that enabled students and local stakeholders to work together on concrete climate adaptation challenges.

Throughout the semester, the students conducted extensive on-site assessments. They mapped key areas, analysed local spatial and environmental data, and examined climate-related challenges affecting the municipality. Based on this systematic assessment, they developed concrete planning proposals for public open spaces. The proposed measures included additional tree and perennial plantings to improve microclimatic conditions. The depaving of traffic areas and parking spaces was identified as an effective strategy to enhance water infiltration and reduce urban heat island effects. Furthermore, the students proposed shaded seating areas and climate-adapted square designs that combine functionality with spatial quality.

A central objective across all project groups was to link climate adaptation with social usability. By upgrading public spaces, the students aimed to improve comfort and accessibility—particularly for older residents—and to create inclusive, attractive meeting places within the community. One project group focused specifically on the landscape at the edge of Zeiselmauer-Wolfpassing. The area between the Danube floodplains and the Vienna Woods is ecologically sensitive, intensively used for agriculture, and highly valued for recreation—including by visitors from nearby Vienna. The students developed proposals that strengthen biodiversity and ecological connectivity while respecting existing agricultural use.

The semester concluded with a public workshop on 29 January 2026 in the municipal hall. Students presented their concepts and discussed them with representatives of various community groups, including municipal councillors, members of the volunteer fire brigade, farmers, and residents of different age groups. During this open and constructive exchange, the proposals were subjected to a practical reality check. Together, participants discussed the potential implications of the measures for daily life, land management, and social interaction within the municipality. The dialogue helped identify opportunities, highlight challenges, and refine ideas to improve their feasibility and long-term applicability. The activity provided a practice-oriented learning environment for future planners. Students worked on real-world challenges, engaged with complex stakeholder constellations, and confronted concrete implementation conditions. At the same time, the municipality benefited from expert input, gained new perspectives on climate adaptation and biodiversity enhancement, and received tangible impulses for its future development.

The Austrian Living Lab would like to express its sincere gratitude to everyone who was involved.