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© Guido Trivellini
Conserving Alpine Waters
The Alps are the freshwater reservoir of Europe. Cities near and far rely on Alpine water for their drinking needs and hydroelectricity supply. But human pressures and global warming have put freshwater in the Alps at risk.

What We Do 

The WWF European Alpine Programme has made freshwater a priority for conservation in the Alps. From lobbying for the preservation of the Tagliamento – one of the last pristine rivers in the Alps – to restoring some of the most ecologically important alpine rivers, WWF is helping to return freshwater back to its natural state.

Our Vision

In the long term, through WWF's work, the situation of Alpine river basins has improved: habitats are protected, restored, and connected.

Source of La Borgne River, Ferpècle Glacier in the Swiss Alps, Valais, Switzerland © WWF

River Restoration 

WWF is helping to restore Alpine rivers by recreating natural water flow dynamics and enhancing connectivity among freshwater systems. WWF is also trying to protect the relatively pristine rivers that are left in the Alps.
 
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Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) with hydropower dam in background. June 2011. © WWF

Ecological Hydropower 

WWF is promoting eco-labeling schemes across the Alps in an effort to support the construction of hydroelectric installations that do not majorly damage and alter the natural habitats and social elements of the affected rivers and lakes.

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