Winter tourism in the European Alps, a balance between environment and society. : A case study about Obertauern in the face of climate change.

Abstract: Climate change is a global phenomenon that affects various industries worldwide. One of the most affected industries is the snow-based industry, which includes skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, winter sports, and related tourism and hospitality sectors. This industry relies heavily on snow and cold temperatures, which are becoming less predictable and more challenging to maintain due to climate change. The impacts of climate change on ski resorts are extensive, such as reduced snowfall, shorter ski seasons, and higher expenses for both the demand and supply sides. As the winter season is crucial for the industry's income, particularly in the Alps, developing sustainable strategies to reduce the ecological footprint is essential, which is not always straightforward for several reasons.   To address these challenges, this study aims to investigate the relationship between tourism and climate change using a case study approach focused on Obertauern, a ski resort in Austria. The study will explore the interdependence between tourism and climate change based on interview studies with key stakeholders from the study area. The study examines the challenges associated with guest transportation and the need for increased cooperation between different links and sectors in the destination. Additionally, the study explores the role of snowmaking in ski resorts and the potential for year-round or two-season destinations, as these are often seen as the major adaptations in literature. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of balancing adaptation and mitigation for the tourism industry in Obertauern to achieve sustainable development, as the tourism sector generates the destination's only income during the around six-month-long winter season.