Alps without snow at AlpWeek
The Alp Week in Nova Gorica concluded with a series of discussions and presentations focused on the challenges facing Alpine regions. A highlight of the event was the “Alps without snow” segment, which dove into the impacts of diminishing snowfall on traditional Alpine destinations. The presentation revealed a concerning trend: the crisis is not only affecting ski resorts but also threatening the glaciers that have long been iconic features of the regions. The reduction in snow cover and glacier retreat underscores the severity of the problem, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive strategies in the face of climate change.
Following the presentation, a role-play session provided participants with a hands-on approach to understanding the options available to local decision-makers. The session simulated real-world scenarios where officials had to make difficult choices regarding resource allocation, tourism strategies, and environmental conservation. It underscored the complexity of the situation, where economic interests and environmental protection must be balanced to ensure sustainable development.
Key takeaways from the discussions emphasized that climate change is a severe threat to the viability of Alpine snow destinations, where traditional winter tourism is already seeing declining numbers. Although various adaptation strategies are in progress, such as snowmaking technology and diversification of tourism offerings, their long-term effectiveness remains uncertain.
To support local governments and stakeholders in navigating these challenges, the BeyondSnow project is developing a Resilience Decision-Making Digital Tool. This innovative tool aims to provide a framework for evaluating different adaptation measures and making informed decisions to enhance resilience in Alpine communities. While still in development, it represents a promising step forward in addressing the unique environmental, social, and economic difficulties posed by a future with less snow.
The Alp Week demonstrated the importance of collaboration and innovative thinking in safeguarding the future of Alpine regions amid a changing climate.
