Sustainable transformations: A look back at the »FOTOHOF klimafit 2023« project

After several months of intense work, FOTOHOF is pleased to provide a comprehensive insight into the successful implementation of current climate protection measures. The “FOTOHOF klimafit 2023” project, funded by the Climate and Energy Fund, is a milestone in our efforts to actively contribute to environmental protection as a cultural institution.

The transformation of our infrastructure presented us with various challenges, which we were able to overcome through careful planning and innovative solutions. One particular challenge in the FOTOHOF>GALLERY was the conversion of the lighting: the new LED systems not only had to be energy-efficient, but also meet the highest standards of lighting quality in our exhibitions. The result exceeds our expectations – the new lighting not only saves 60% energy, but also improves the presentation of the artworks thanks to its precise control options and optimized color rendering.

The FOTOHOF>LIBRARY needed to find a sustainable solution for overheating in summer. The implementation of an automated air conditioning concept, consisting of intelligent shading and ventilation control, proved to be technically challenging, but now enables completely natural air conditioning. This innovative solution eliminates the need for energy-intensive air conditioning units and at the same time creates a much more pleasant indoor climate for visitors and the team.

The most important findings from the project show that climate protection and cultural work not only complement each other, but also have the potential to reinforce each other. The modernization of our technical infrastructure leads to a significant reduction in our energy consumption and at the same time improves the quality of our exhibition and working conditions. This reaffirms our conviction that cultural institutions can and should act as role models in the area of sustainability.

As an established center of excellence for artistic photography, we see it as our responsibility to pursue forward-looking paths not only in terms of content, but also in our operational activities. The successful implementation of the »FOTOHOF klimafit 2023« project is an important step on our way to becoming a more sustainable cultural institution.

We would like to thank the Climate and Energy Fund for its support in implementing these important modernization measures. Our positive experiences encourage us to continue pursuing innovative paths in the area of sustainability and to share our findings with other cultural institutions.

This project was funded by the Climate and Energy Fund and carried out as part of the Climate-Friendly Cultural Institutions program.
klimafonds.gv.at