"Nature, not Nationalism" - Protecting Alpine Forests responsibily

CODE: AT-SCI 10.1

Description: Many plant species have been introduced by humans to areas that they are not native to, also in the mountains of Tyrol in the Austrian Alps. These non-native plants often are a threat for the delicate balance of local ecosystems and biodiversity, competing with native plant species. However, the language of "invasive species" has been abused for harmful right-wing politics. The link between ecological conservation and anti-foreigner rhetoric is not just an unfortunate linguistic coincidence—it has historical roots in National Socialist ideology. By participating in this camp, you will contribute to meaningful conservation work while engaging in discussions about ethical, indigenous and anti-racist approaches to ecology.

Type of Work: We will spend 5 hours a day doing physical work. We will remove non-native plants from the forests of the village by cutting the plants.

Study Theme: We will learn and discuss about the concept of „ecofascism“: What are the historical and present links between ecological conservation, racism and nationalism? How have the Nazis in the 1930s and 1940s abused ecology for their purposes? How are right-wing politics abusing environmentalism today? We will also explore indigenous approaches to land management.

Accommodation: Living conditions are very simple. We will sleep on matresses on the floor of a school. Hot showers, electricity and internet are available at the accommodation. Please bring a sleeping bag for yourself. We will cook food ourselves. All food will be vegan, as animal agriculture massively contributes to our global environmental crisis.

Language: We will speak English in the group.

Requirements: Since this is an environmental project, we would like volunteers to arrive via more sustainable means of transport (train, bus) rather than by plane. Planes contribute massively to the climate crisis.

Approximate Location: The camp will take place in the village of Terfens, close to Innsbruck in Austria.