The 13th Swiss Tourism Forum in Bern recently addressed climate change as a critical challenge for the nation's tourism sector. Over 165 leaders from politics, business, research, and government gathered to discuss strategies. The goal is to help destinations adapt to warming temperatures while working towards net-zero emissions by 2050.
Key Takeaways
- Climate change is human-made and already affecting Swiss regions.
- Adaptation measures and emission reduction efforts must go hand in hand.
- New data tools, like Kompass Schnee, help winter destinations make informed decisions.
- Effective climate communication involves storytelling and emotional appeal.
- The forum's insights will inform Switzerland's new federal tourism strategy, due by 2027.
Understanding the Climate Challenge
Erich Fischer from ETH Zurich delivered a keynote speech, emphasizing the human origin of climate change. He highlighted that its effects are already visible across many regions. Fischer stressed the need to integrate climate protection with adaptation strategies. He also pointed out the growing importance of regional authenticity and local value creation in tourism.
The urgency of the situation is clear. The tourism industry, especially in mountainous regions, faces direct impacts. Reduced snow cover, for instance, directly affects winter sports. This necessitates a shift in focus and investment for many destinations.
"Climate protection and adaptation must be considered together. Regional authenticity and local value creation are becoming increasingly important."
Erich Fischer, ETH Zurich
Climate Fact
The Bodensee region experienced significant financial losses, approximately 700,000 Swiss Francs, due to low water levels and Quagga mussel deposits, forcing a 74-day closure of shipping routes.
From Concepts to Concrete Actions
Martina Hollenstein, project manager for the Innotour project 'Climate-Fit Destinations', echoed Fischer's sentiments. She highlighted the importance of testing measures early in practical settings. This approach is more effective than simply developing theoretical concepts. Her team's examples show that adapting to climate change is both possible and economically sensible. This involves evolving existing offerings and sharpening market positioning.
The 'Beyond Snow' project, for instance, explores future models for alpine tourism. It focuses on how mountain regions can adapt as snow cover diminishes. This includes diversifying activities and promoting year-round tourism. Such initiatives are crucial for long-term sustainability.
Tools for Adaptation and Emission Reduction
One notable development is the Innotour project 'Kompass Schnee'. This new platform on STnet provides vital data to winter destinations, cable car operators, and authorities. It helps them make informed decisions about adaptation measures. The platform offers a realistic assessment of snow conditions, guiding investments and service development.
Workshops at the forum explored pathways to climate-neutral destinations. Examples like Vercorin and the Climate-Neutral Bernese Oberland region demonstrated success. These cases show that entire regions can pursue emission reduction targets collaboratively. Clear goals and defined responsibilities are key to this collective effort.
Background on Federal Support
Experts also introduced Adapt+, a new federal funding instrument from the Federal Office for the Environment. Additionally, programs from the Federal Office of Energy support emission reductions. These initiatives provide crucial financial and technical backing for climate-friendly projects in tourism.
The Power of Climate Communication
A significant part of the discussion focused on climate communication. Experts suggested moving beyond mere facts and figures. Instead, they advocated for telling stories and appealing to emotions. This approach is more likely to encourage sustainable actions from both guests and businesses. Technical language alone often fails to motivate behavioral change.
Effective communication can highlight the benefits of sustainable tourism. It can show how eco-friendly practices enhance the visitor experience. This shift helps embed sustainability into the core identity of a destination. It moves beyond compliance to genuine engagement.
Shaping the Future Federal Tourism Strategy
Reto Burkard, Deputy Director of the Federal Office for the Environment, outlined tourism's role in climate protection. As a cross-sector industry, tourism is particularly exposed to climate impacts. However, it also has a responsibility to contribute to both mitigation and adaptation. The climate legislation sets a clear path to net-zero by 2050. It provides instruments that must be used consistently.
The outcomes of the forum will directly inform the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (Seco) in developing the new federal tourism strategy. Adaptation to climate change and mitigation are central components of this upcoming strategy. The Federal Council is expected to approve the strategy by early 2027. Its successful implementation will depend on concrete measures at the destination level and coordinated use of available funding instruments.
Investment in Tourism
Federal funding from 2012 to 2023 significantly boosted tourism projects and strengthened networks. Many initiatives are continuing long-term, according to a Seco evaluation.
The Forum as a Dialogue Platform
The Swiss Tourism Forum continues to serve as an important platform for exchange and coordination. Its annual event, along with thematic working groups and webinars, helps address industry challenges. This is achieved through dialogue between the tourism industry, regions, cantons, and federal agencies. Seco finances and leads the forum, ensuring continued collaboration on these vital issues. The collective effort aims to secure a resilient and sustainable future for Swiss tourism.
Future-Proofing the Industry
The discussions at the forum highlight a proactive approach. The industry is not just reacting to climate change. It is actively seeking innovative solutions. This includes developing new models for ski resorts to assess snow reliability. It also involves investing wisely in the face of rising temperatures. Data models, launched by tourism organizations and scientists, are gaining significant interest.
The sector is also addressing broader issues. These include circular economy principles and managing skilled worker shortages. Conferences like Regiosuisse bring together experts to discuss regional value creation. They also explore how New Regional Policy can strengthen regions. This holistic approach is essential for a thriving tourism future.
- New data models help assess snow reliability for ski resorts.
- The 'Kompass Schnee' project forecasts natural snow cover decline until 2050.
- Regional conferences discuss circular economy and workforce challenges.
The engagement of young professionals is also a priority. The recent Tourism Experience Days in Zurich connected 50 young individuals with industry tasks and professionals. This initiative helps cultivate the next generation of tourism leaders. It ensures a continuous flow of fresh ideas and talent into the evolving sector.
Internationally, Switzerland is also contributing. The country used the UN General Assembly for Tourism in Riyadh to present its positions. Key topics included artificial intelligence, international cooperation, and the election of the new Secretary-General. This global engagement underscores Switzerland's commitment to shaping the future of tourism worldwide.