Future of tourism: Strengthen sustainable mobility in Zell am See

Future of tourism: Strengthen sustainable mobility in Zell am See

The eleventh tourism mobility day took place in the picturesque region of Zell am See-Kaprun last week, organized by the Austrian Ministry of Tourism and Climate Protection. More than 130 experts came together to speak in stimulating discussions about the challenges and opportunities of sustainable mobility in the tourism sector during the climate crisis.

A central topic was the necessary steps to improve mobility in tourism. Thomas Wurzinger, the sustainability officer of the Saalfelden Leogang Touristik, emphasized the importance of a “group of willing” and a carer to promote this topic. Saalfelden-Leogang was recently recognized as one of the few regions with the Austrian environmental sign, which serves as a guideline for destination development in the coming years.

sustainable mobility as a competitive advantage

The environmental sign shows where there are blind spots and calls for a rethink. For example, the travel initiation on the website could no longer automatically indicate the journey by car or aircraft, but rather the environmentally friendly alternatives. Wurzinger explained that the local micro-ÖV system, the Loigom-soifen shuttle, has already been successfully established and that further measures to improve public transport are planned.

In addition, not only the cycle paths should be designed more attractive and safer, but also the transitions between public transport and foot traffic must be optimized. An exciting approach that was discussed is the establishment of a mobility center in Pinzgau, which could be the point of contact for all mobility issues. A model is the "Mobilito" concept in the Pongau, which is already being practiced.

The event also offered space for contributions from representatives of other certified tourism regions. Elias Walser from the Seefeld tourism association emphasized that you should think about generations and not only act in short -term economic constraints.

Innovative approaches to promote sustainability

A new approach to promoting sustainable mobility is the Resy dashboard, an information system that helps the tourist regions to monitor their progress and compare them. Walser noted that compliance with standards in tourism is essential in order not only to evaluate the user numbers of public transport, but also to take topics such as sustainability seriously.

Markus Brandstätter from the Nassfeld-Pressegger See region pointed out that real will to change is required. It is about honestly informing consumers about the actual environmental impact of their vacation, which concerns, for example, the use of biodiesel -powered slopes.

The occasion did not come out without honor either. The Ministry of Climate Protection was awarded exemplary institutions for their commitment to climate protection. Zell am See-Kaprun received this award for the project "Sanft-Mobil zum Ironman 70.3". Managing Director Manuel Resch proudly commented on the recognition: "Our continuous efforts for sustainable tourism development are therefore appreciated."