Over the last 120 years, temperatures in the Alpine region have risen by almost two degrees Celsius - about twice as much as the global average. This rise in temperature has consequences for the Alpine ecosystems and soils. Changes are becoming increasingly visible, particularly in the water balance of the soil. In many places, the groundwater level is falling, and droughts are becoming more frequent and more severe. Weather events are also becoming more volatile and extreme. In addition to dry periods, short-term heavy rainfalls and storms are becoming more frequent. Agriculture in the Alpine region is already facing major challenges, especially in the near and medium term. Farmers have already begun to adapt to the new climate conditions with a variety of measures.
Regarding soil water balance, new climate data or climate forecasts, among other things, can provide valuable insights into future adjustments in land use. For example, climate-related scenarios on the distribution of dry areas provide helpful information on the extent and severity of drought monitoring in the Alpine region.
The "Impuls4Action" project places particular emphasis on the exchange of information and experiences. Holding workshops with stakeholders can serve the purpose both of exchanging scientific information and discussing concrete measures and best practices. Experiences about concrete management techniques in grassland farming, as a form of adaptation to the changing water balance in the soil, were exchanged in a workshop, among many other examples.
The Impuls4Action Toolbox aims to provide actors in this field with suitable examples, projects, methods and experts, to promote the exchange of know-how and stimulate best practices in water management for Alpine soils.