Sustainability and Environment

The Waldhütte stands for experiencing nature closely and acting responsibly. Our goal is to keep our ecological footprint as small as possible and actively contribute to climate protection. That’s why we focus on resource-saving measures, sustainable construction, and mindful use of energy and water as well as the proper handling of waste.

As “Waldhütteliers”, environmental protection is a matter of course for us. Since 2023, we have been a Climate Alliance partner and openly share our environmental balance through the KlimaCheck. From this, climate goals for the Waldhütte have been set, which we aim to achieve step by step.

More on the KlimaCheck: 👉 View the full results here

Our sustainable measures

♻ Environmentally friendly practices

Climate Alliance partnership:
As a member of the Climate Alliance Tirol, we actively work toward CO₂ reduction and sustainable development.
Building with natural materials:
For every cabin renovation, we use natural materials such as wood, glass, wool, and clay...
Gentle mobility:
We encourage our guests to arrive by public transport. As a thank you, you receive a Silberzehner bonus. For the last stretch to the cabin, expedition sleds are available in winter.

🔄 Waste separation & recycling

Material separation:
Paper, glass, plastic with metal, and organic waste are disposed of separately.
Zero-waste approach: We rely on reusable materials, eco-friendly cleaning agents, and avoid unnecessary waste.

💧 Water conservation

Conscious water use:
Hot water supply (2 x 60-liter boilers) is deliberately limited to the essentials.
Future vision:
We plan to enable hot water production through photovoltaic power.

⚡ Energy efficiency

Renewable heat:
The living room is heated with wood from our own forest and joinery wood waste. Additionally, we use green electricity.
LED lighting and manual light controls help reduce electricity consumption.
Photovoltaic expansion:
We plan to further expand our renewable energy supply.

🌿 Regional products & added value

Local farm products:
Fresh food is available around the clock at the “Lieblingsladerl” on Arzberg. The 24-hour store is 1 kilometer from Schwaz.
Regional gastronomy:
We recommend local businesses such as Biohotel Grafenast, Hotel Frieden, Alpengasthof Hubertus, as well as huts and inns like Loas, Kellerjochhütte, Hecherhaus, Gartalm, Proxenalm, and many more — where you can enjoy authentic Tyrolean cuisine.

Our future goals for more sustainability

Avoidance of corn starch bio-waste bags
Awareness-raising measures for guests: personal tips, zero-waste books to read...
Printing the price list on grass paper
Balcony renovation with wooden boards

What still needs to be done:

Install photovoltaic system
Insulate the cellar and entrance area
Remodel bathroom/washroom
Plant climate-resistant trees
Further promote nature and climate awareness among our guests (especially regarding arrival)

Your sustainability tips for an eco-friendly stay:

To help you actively contribute to climate protection during your stay, consider the following sustainable tips:

Save energy:
Turn off lights and electrical devices when not in use. Avoid leaving devices on standby to save energy and reduce your electricity bill.
Use water consciously:
Keep showers short and use water sparingly in the kitchen. Remember, every bit of water counts. Hot water is currently heated with electricity, so this also helps save on your own electricity costs.
Separate waste:
Sort your waste correctly in the containers behind the Waldhütte for paper, glass, plastic, and metal. Organic waste goes into the designated wooden compost shelter in the forest.
Gentle mobility:
Walk as much as possible or use public transport. The guest card “Silbercard” allows free bus use in the Silberregion Karwendel.
Enjoy regional products:
Cook with fresh local ingredients. Visit local restaurants and huts, and buy products in the farm shop. Pick mushrooms, forest berries, or herbs yourself in the surrounding woods.
Respect the surrounding nature:
Avoid unnecessary noise, refrain from open fires during dry conditions, and treat nature with care.