Austria's rivers, vital for biodiversity, agriculture, and energy, are in dire need of ecological restoration.

Only 14% of the country's rivers are in a very good ecological state, with many having been altered by human intervention over the decades.

This has led to a loss of habitat for fish, with 60% of native species now endangered.

However, a new study by the WWF highlights a significant opportunity for change, identifying 1,000 kilometers of rivers with high potential for renaturation.

Simple measures, such as removing outdated barriers and reconnecting side arms, could restore these waterways.

The WWF emphasizes that restoring rivers not only creates valuable habitats but also mitigates the impacts of climate change by reducing flood risks and supporting water retention.

Austria is urged to prioritize river restoration in line with the EU's goal to renature 25,000 kilometers of rivers by 2030.