This analysis deals with the issue of the security—environment nexus in the Czech-Austrian border region (Znojmo-Retz Area). This research uses investigative tools from both the natural and social sciences. The issue is examined at three interconnected planes: first, there is a theoretical plane dealing with the notion of environmental security (ES) in existing literature. Specifically, focus is paid to the heuristic utility of the so-called Environmental Degradation-Conflict Thesis. After its problems are exposed, a conceptual and theoretical shift is suggested in order to correct for its deficiencies. Second, the notion of spatiality is introduced and discussed. The key term here is cultural spatiality. Our original typology of cultural landscape units is provided and their main characteristics are specified. The typology is subsequently applied to the assessment of existing environmental hazards in the region. Thirdly, environmental security is looked at through the lens of social research. This plane has thus in its centre the perception of environmental security by local stakeholders. The perception of environmental security of the Znojmia as seen by the Czech stakeholders and the perception of environmental security of the Retzerland as seen by the Austrian stakeholders are compared and contrasted. The conclusion terminates the analysis proposed below.
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Hynek, N., Hynek, A. (2009). The Security–Environment Nexus Along The Czech-Austrian Border: Theory, Spatiality And Perception. In: Stec, S., Baraj, B. (eds) Energy and Environmental Challenges to Security. NATO Science for Peace and Security Series C: Environmental Security. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-9453-8_9
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