| By: |
Ephraim Gerber (HES-SO - Haute Ecole Spécialisée de Suisse Occidentale);
Jeanne Fournier (UNIL - Université de Lausanne = University of Lausanne);
Emmanuel Salim (UNIL - Université de Lausanne = University of Lausanne, ISTHIA - Institut supérieur du tourisme, de l'hôtellerie et de l'alimentation (Toulouse) - UT2J - Université Toulouse - Jean Jaurès - UT - Université de Toulouse, CERTOP - Centre d'Etude et de Recherche Travail Organisation Pouvoir - UT2J - Université Toulouse - Jean Jaurès - UT - Université de Toulouse - UT3 - Université Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier - UT - Université de Toulouse - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique);
Emmanuel Fragnière (HES-SO - Haute Ecole Spécialisée de Suisse Occidentale);
Leïla Kebir (UNIL - Université de Lausanne = University of Lausanne) |
| Abstract: |
Climate change affects mountain tourism and summer glacier skiing, a highly
vulnerable activity. This paper explores the complex dynamics affecting summer
glacier skiing in Swiss Alpine destinations. The methodology involved
conducting 26 semi-structured interviews followed by three workshops with
tourism stakeholders. Applying systems thinking, this research highlights the
challenges faced by summer glacier skiing destinations and the ongoing
commitment required amid evolving cryosphere dynamics. Sustaining summer
glacier skiing touches on vulnerability factors in climatic and socioeconomic
dimensions. The disappearance of the activity has implications for the cable
car companies, the hospitality sector and the wider mountain tourism industry.
The systems thinking approach in this research reveals feedback loops and
leverage points, such as uncertainties about the future of the activity. |
| Keywords: |
Summer glacier skiing, Systems thinking, Climate adaptation, Climate risk, Glacier tourism |
| Date: |
2025–05 |
| URL: |
https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:halshs-04988414 |