The Danube is an important waterway for international freight and passenger transport and plays an elementary role in the economy. At the same time, the Danube region is a valuable ecosystem with a diverse flora and fauna. Due to the growing importance of nature and environmental protection, the sustainable management of the river and its bank areas is becoming increasingly significant. However, these efforts are in conflict with shipping, which is particularly affected by periods of low water. The personal aspects of this work lie in the fascinating interplay between the inland waterway vessel as a means of transport and the environment, as well as the special relevance of the Danube for Austria. The central problems examined in this work are the environmental impacts of Danube shipping, the potential conflict between renaturation goals and the use of the river as a waterway, and how these issues are perceived by travelers. The paper is divided into seven chapters. Following a theoretical introduction to the Danube ecosystem and its importance for shipping, the environmental impacts of shipping and the concepts of river renaturation are analyzed in detail. The study follows a deductive research approach based on existing literature, such as specialist books, reports, and studies. Quantitative methods were used to test the hypotheses. A literature analysis is conducted to test the first hypothesis, which states that shipping has a negative impact on the environment. The second assumption, which addresses the conflict between renaturation and shipping, is examined by analyzing case studies and "best-practice"-examples. To answer the third hypothesis, which deals with the perception of travelers, an empirical survey was conducted among the passengers of a river cruise. The results of the work confirm that Danube shipping has significant environmental impacts, particularly through emissions, noise, and swell from the ships, as well as the structural interventions required to maintain the infrastructure. However, the assumed fundamental conflict between ecological measures and the interests of shipping could be refuted. The analysis shows that a coexistence of both concerns is possible through innovative and cooperative approaches and is already being successfully implemented. Furthermore, the survey revealed that travelers are aware of the environmental impacts and highly value the importance of sustainable measures. However, this environmental consideration plays a minor role in the actual booking decision. These findings form the basis for further recommendations for action and identify future research needs.
Die Donau als Transportweg und Lebensraum: Umweltbewusstsein in der Güter- und Passagierschifffahrt
Oettl, M. (Author). 2025
Student thesis: Master's Thesis