Health & climate protection: university project strengthens communities

Bernstein/Pinkafeld, 12 September 2025 : Findings from science and research do not end up in a drawer at University of Applied Sciences Burgenland, but are used exactly where they can have an impact. One example of this is currently underway. The "WALK-munity in Motion" project is funded by the Healthy Austria Fund, runs until autumn 2027 and aims to promote active mobility - such as walking and cycling - in the municipalities of Bernstein and Pinkafeld. The focus is on health, quality of life and climate protection.

Walking and cycling are good for health and the climate

A particular focus of the project is on training pupils from the HLW/HLPS Pinkafeld and the Bernstein secondary school to become climate ambassadors. In several modules embedded in lessons, the young people are sensitised to the benefits of active, climate-friendly mobility and empowered to pass on their knowledge as multipliers in their environment.

"We are delighted that the municipalities of Bernstein and Pinkafeld have shown great commitment and willingness to implement this project together with us from the very beginning," explains Selina Osztovics from the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland.

Communities benefit from working together

In the coming months, status analyses will be carried out, implementation concepts developed and awareness-raising measures launched. The two municipalities will benefit from a mutual exchange and the utilisation of shared resources. Bernstein, for example, is already heavily involved in climate protection as an E5 municipality, while Pinkafeld also contributes valuable experience with mobility projects at the primary school.

"Connecting schools and businesses with the municipality of Pinkafeld is very important to us in order to create synergies, promote cooperation and develop a strong sense of togetherness. With the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland, we have a perfect project partner and, with sustainable mobility, a topic that we want to push and promote more strongly," emphasises Lena Sinz, Head of the Municipality of Pinkafeld.

Renate Habetler, Mayor of the municipality of Bernstein, adds: "The collaboration between Bernstein and Pinkafeld is the best proof of how sustainable mobility can succeed across generations - with concrete learning paths for pupils and measurable benefits for our health. The joint efforts of the population, schools and University of Applied Sciences Burgenland are making sustainable mobility visible and sustainable."

It is no coincidence that the kick-off event on 17 September at 18:30 in the town hall in Pinkafeld coincides with European Mobility Week. Initial impetus will be given here to sensitise the population to the advantages of active mobility and to gather initial experiences from citizens on the topic.

Students at University of Applied Sciences Burgenland will also be involved in the project, for example as part of courses in the field of health promotion.

Information and registration at www.hochschule-burgenland.at.

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Enquiry notes:

Mag.a Christiane Staab │ Marketing and Communication │ University of Applied Sciences Burgenland GmbH │ Tel: +43 (0)5 7705 3537 │ E-Mail: christiane.staab(at)hochschule-burgenland.at