Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design Budapest
Central European Network for Sonic Ecologies
Possible roles of sound ecology in the development strategy of Szigetköz region, Hungary
The Szigetköz region lies in the North-Western corner of Hungary. It’s the biggest inland river delta in Europe. It has been severely damaged by the construction of the Gabčíkovo – Nagymaros Dam System during the 1980’s and early 90’s.
The rehabilitation of the region has been on the agenda for decades. The current “Insula Magna” Sustainable Development Research Program was initiated by the Ministry of Innovation and Technology with the participation of iASK Kőszeg. The aim of the project is to develop a long-term and multifaceted concept that will enable the Szigetköz region to become a sustainable and exemplary development area in Europe, bringing together conflicting spheres such as natural ecology and tourism. This is the first time that sound ecology has been presented as part of a comprehensive research project in Hungary.
In my paper, I describe the Szigetköz region as a soundscape from the perspectives of geophony, biophony and anthropophony. I will review relevant international research patterns and methods, such as eco-acoustic monitoring and traditional knowledge. Finally I propose research and action lines. Sound can, according to my analysis, contribute to the concept of regeneration in three areas: as a tool for monitoring ecological processes.; as a natural asset to be preserved and valorised; as an inspiration and material for site-specific artistic works.