[Translated by eTranslation]

1996 was created in the era of ao. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Bernd Lötsch, Director General of the NHM Vienna, the Department of Ecology & Environmental Education, which has been dedicated to the mediation work for the protection of nature, the landscape and biodiversity for 30 years now, currently integrated in the Department of Science Communication of the NHM Vienna.
 
An exemplary field station was built on the edge of the Petroneller Au: a research and excursion centre for work on land and water, a training centre for nature guides, an engaging educational venue for teachers and their classes, and a showcase for eco-friendly construction spanning 2,400 m².
 
At the heart of the Petronell National Park Institute is the completely self-sufficient eco-house, which was already a teaching example for sustainable construction in 1996: "Recycling of buildings" instead of landfills, preservation of the foundation walls including drainage and a "beauty cure" transformed the old building into a typical Pannonian house.
 
Over the years, it has become the leading institution in questions of outdoor pedagogy for school and university project weeks, but also for the training of national park nature guides in the Danube floodplains in close partnership with the National Park Administration in Orth/Danube. The Petronell branch counts around 2,000 guests every year.
 
A highlight are the inflatable boat excursions on the Danube. Here, a wide variety of target groups – school classes as well as innovative decision-makers of today – can gain direct experience with animals and plants in the wild during excursions and project days.
 
The most important goal is to inspire urban people for the wilderness without endangering sensitive natural zones!
 

Program on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 9.30 a.m. in Langegasse 28, 2404 Petronell:

Opening remarks

Dr. Katrin Vohland, Director General and Scientific Director, NHM Vienna
DI Edith Klauser, Director General, Donau-Auen National Park
Prof. Dr. Bernd Lötsch, Director General from 1994 to 2009, NHM Vienna
Dr. Claudia Roson, Head of Petronell, Science Communication, NHM Vienna
 
A little surprise

Moderation

Dr. Manfred Rosenberger
  
Subsequently: Cozy ending with a small snack
  
Press accreditation: presse@nhm.at
  
Inquiry note:
Mag. Irina Kubadinow
Head of Press & Public Relations, Press Spokesperson
Tel.: +43 (1) 521 77-410                                                          
irina.kubadinow@nhm.at                                                         
 
Mag. Klara Vakaj
Press officer
Tel.: +43 (1) 521 77-626
klara.vakaj@nhm.at