Austria hosts an amazing array of plants and animals. 111 of the most charismatic species are the centrepiece of the new campaign ‘überLEBEN’, launched today by the Ministry of Environment, the Austrian Federal Forests Enterprise and the conservation organisation Naturschutzbund.

In the coming five years, keen birdwatchers and other nature lovers are encouraged to share their observations online and receive help in classifying species at www.naturbeobachtung.at. In addition to the internet platform, conservation action, communication and education will show Austrians where the country’s biodiversity is, why it is in danger and what to do to conserve it.

Through the campaign, the three Countdown 2010 partners are making a contribution to ongoing efforts to save Austria’s biodiversity by 2010. "Naturbeobachtung.at builds the often missing link from global targets to active citizens. This example has the potential to inspire similar initiatives all over Europe and the world." commented Tamás Marghescu, Regional Director for Europe, the World Conservation Union.