Sustainable development - Austria versus the Czech Republic: Difference between revisions

'''Zotter chocolat manufactory'''

In Zotter, we appreciated that the management of the manufactory insists on the high quality of products and cares about ingredients from the very beginning. Also fair-trade market is supported –this step is very important because all the people deserve to be equally honorated for their work and it helps to improve living conditions even in undeveloped countries.  

In Gölles manufactory, local products are used if possible – it saves energy (and consequently money) for transport while supporting regional producers. Futhermore, the manufacturer can also check the quality of the products he uses. But how to persuade people to buy these high-quality, often fair-trade and organic, but maybe little more expensive and unknown products? We think that much better than commercial advertisment is to make people familiar with the process of production, let them to try or taste the product or also follow local traditions. Consumers should be aware of the fact that if they buy local products, they gain more than just a good product – they support their region and the environment.

Another aspect that can help to regional development is tourism. Of course, some places are more attractive than other e.g. thanks to natural or historical background. However, in Gleisdorf, we saw that even a good idea is enough because a local hotel is successful thanks to an original bear-spa concept.  

We really appreciate the attitude of Gessäuse natural park towards its visitors. They focus not only on preserving nature and scientific research but also on informing people and educating children – both in an interesting and amusing way. This could be a good inspiration for Czech protected areas.