Exciting innovations are being developed here

No summer is complete without a barbecue! A fun get-together, a wide variety of dishes in a relaxed atmosphere—for many, firing up the grill is simply part of the warm season. What we put on the grill should be anything but a trivial matter:  When you consciously choose seasonal vegetables and high-quality meat from Austria, you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re also supporting local agriculture and regional economic growth.

August is the perfect time to enjoy nature to the fullest. Whether you’re hiking, at the lake, in the garden, or on vacation—the sun is a part of many wonderful summer moments. At the same time, your skin is exposed to particular stresses during this season. UV rays, heat, wind, and saltwater or chlorinated water can strain the skin’s natural barrier and strip it of moisture.

With the right skincare, you can help your skin stay healthy, supple, and radiant all summer long. Three factors play a key role here: protection, hydration, and regeneration.

There is a vast variety of skin care and cosmetic products available. No matter what the problem, the market offers a solution to pamper yourself and your skin. For dry skin, you apply moisturizer diligently; for dandruff, there’s the right shampoo; and for wrinkles, there are numerous formulations designed to make your skin glow. But even products intended for good can often—even expensive ones—contain questionable ingredients. We’re talking about PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals.” They’re frequently used in cosmetics and other products because of their durability, but they’re facing increasing criticism due to their impact on people and the environment. This article explains what they are, how they work, why they can be harmful, and why natural cosmetics offer a genuine alternative.

Brown blades of grass, bare patches, and a lawn that looks a bit worn out overall: Heat and prolonged dry spells can take a significant toll in the summer. But even if your lawn looks anything but healthy right now, there’s still plenty you can do. Fall is the ideal time to help your lawn recover and, at the same time, prepare it well for winter.

That’s because, while the intense heat is over, the soil is still pleasantly warm. Cooler temperatures and more frequent rainfall create good conditions for growth. The grass can recover, form new roots, and gradually fill in smaller gaps.

Wild fruit is experiencing a renaissance. What was once a common sight in farm and monastery gardens is now finding its place once again in natural gardens. Whether it’s cornelian cherry, serviceberry, or medlar—these old-fashioned trees and shrubs delight with their magnificent blooms, aromatic fruits, and hardiness. At the same time, they provide valuable food for bees, butterflies, and birds and create habitats right on your doorstep. With healthy soil and the support of Effective Microorganisms, they thrive and enrich the garden for many decades.

“In times of need, we come together more closely”

St. Anton am Arlberg is known far beyond Austria’s borders as a legendary ski resort. Lush green meadows in summer or snow-capped mountains in winter are what most people think of first when they hear the name. But in August 2024, severe storms rocked the idyllic region. Heavy rain triggered mudslides in parts of the Landeck and Innsbruck-Land districts, causing widespread flooding. St. Anton (Landeck district) closed mountain railways and roads, bringing daily life to a standstill for a moment. During those days, it became clear how quickly a familiar living environment can turn into a crisis zone—and how crucial solidarity is when the familiar suddenly collapses.