The Goldene Unke 2022: Seeking innovative, nature-oriented and nature-conserving building projects

Goldene Unke

The Goldene Unke (‘Golden Toad’) is an award that aims to identify and highlight nature conservation innovations in construction projects.

The competition, which is being held for the second time, helps to recognise well-done implementations in the sector. The award is an incentive for companies, municipalities and cities to implement projects that are closer to nature and more environmentally friendly, showcasing successful projects. Submissions are possible until 16 October 2022.

We are looking for construction projects that are successful and innovative with regard to the implementation of nature conservation measures or nature conservation requirements. Projects that improve nature (animal and plant species, habitats, etc.) are eligible for the award. "Nature conservation and the construction industry are increasingly finding joint solutions", explains Martin Schneider, Head of the Civil Engineering and Architecture Department at Carinthia University of Applied Sciences. It goes on to say: "We want to bring sustainable construction projects before the curtain and thus support the development of nature-friendly construction".

Projects that have been successfully implemented in Carinthia in the past five years are eligible to participate. The submission is made by a person who was involved in the project. The Golden Toad is connected with the unique Austrian training programme for nature conservation specialists at Carinthia University of Applied Sciences. Its graduates are qualified to independently prepare, practically implement and check practical nature conservation measures in construction and raw materials management, in water management, in the management of transport routes (roads, railways) and public infrastructure, as well as European protected areas.

More information on the conditions of participation and submission: https://www.fh-kaernten.at/gunk

Financed by: Province of Carinthia and the European Union