The impact of climate change on mountain tourism

Summary of this study

Mountain landscapes and communities are highly sensitive and vulnerable to climate change. Tourism in mountain regions is heavily dependent on natural resources and attractions that are highly sensitive to climatic changes.

This systematic review, which analyzes 276 papers, provides a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature on the impact of climate change on mountain tourism. The effects on the snow season are predominantly negative, while they vary from positive to negative for the summer.

However, due to contradictory results and a lack of research in some regions and tourism activities, the impacts are not yet fully understood.

Seven key knowledge gaps have been identified:

• insufficient consideration of studies
• lack of data and indicators
• Need for a year-round perspective
• analysis of opportunities
• economic and socio-political consequences for mountain communities
• Need for better scientific communication
• Lack of studies on liability and regulatory risks.

In order to develop applicable and effective climate change adaptation strategies, it is important to broaden the understanding of potential climate impacts on mountain tourism and to involve stakeholders.

Findings from this study

• The effects of climate change on the snow season in mountain tourism are predominantly negative. This means that the conditions for winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding are likely to deteriorate.
• The effects on summer activities in mountain tourism are more varied and range from positive to negative. This suggests that the relationship between climate change and summer activities is more complex. Some summer activities may benefit from changing climate conditions, while others may suffer.
• Mountain regions around the world are experiencing accelerating temperature increases. This creates new and unique challenges for alpine habitats, unique animal and plant species and small, remote communities.
• The study shows that the mountain tourism industry is not yet taking sufficient measures to adapt to climate change. Stakeholders often cite "lack of knowledge" as an obstacle to adapting to climate change. At the same time, uncertainty is often cited as a justification for not taking action.
• While ecosystems are trying to adapt to climatic developments as best they can on their own, the tourism industry needs to develop new ideas and plans to keep pace with nature. This in turn means that tourism professionals need to learn how to deal with changing water conditions, the growing season of flora and fauna, changing circumstances for animals, more extreme weather conditions and possible resulting dangers.

Publication: Robert Steiger, Natalie Knowles, Katharina Pöll & Michelle Rutty (2024)