Land use - State and impacts (Liechtenstein)

 b) What are the state (S) and impacts (I) related to this theme, including impacts on the natural environment and human health/human well-being, both at national level as well as in transboundary terms?

In recent years, major changes in land use have taken place in Liechtenstein compared with the rest of Europe. Between 1984 and 2008, artificial land use in the Principality of Liechtenstein increased continuously (unchecked) by 37 %, or 1.5 % per year. By contrast, the increase in settlement areas in Switzerland over the same period was ’only’ 1 %. Unlike in Liechtenstein, growth in Switzerland can be described as restricted.

Corine Land Cover Leichtenstein (2002)

The increase in artificial land use took place primarily at the expense of arable land, meadows and pastures. The area newly settled every year amounts to 17.75 ha. The development of settlements in the Principality of Liechtenstein has advanced continuously in the last 24 years. In the same period, agricultural areas have diminished by nearly 500 ha, roughly equivalent to the area of 1 000 football pitches. Areas covered by fruit trees (fruit plantations and field fruit) diminished by nearly 45 % during this timeframe. Built-up areas have increased by 56 % in 24 years, and surfaced areas by 37.5 %. Many natural events have also left their mark on the forest and unproductive areas: the storms ’Vivian’ and above all ’Lothar’ caused major damage, whilst flooding and landslides (July 1995, Triesenberg) have left behind lasting damage and altered many stream beds (Stägerbach, Samina). Avalanches (February 1999, Malbun) have torn up trees and even many houses.

Example of settlement development in Liechtenstein