Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites, Alta Badia isn’t just a haven for skiers and hikers; it’s a region passionately committed to sustainable practices. Here, the Ladin people, with their deep love for their land, have woven a philosophy of environmental responsibility into the very fabric of their tourism industry. Let’s delve into the inspiring initiatives that make Alta Badia a leader in eco-friendly tourism.
ATIRA: Educating for Action
ATIRA, meaning “immediately” in Ladin, embodies the proactive approach Alta Badia takes towards sustainability. This series of summer excursions and meetings aims to educate residents and visitors on crucial issues impacting the region’s future. Alongside local experts, participants explore the mountains, gaining insights into the delicate ecosystem. From understanding the threat posed by the bark beetle to appreciating the role of mushrooms in the forest’s health, ATIRA fosters a sense of responsibility for preserving this natural treasure.
Hands-on Engagement: Activities for Every Eco-Warrior
Alta Badia offers a variety of activities that go beyond lectures, encouraging active participation in environmental stewardship.
The Bark Beetle: A Tree-Eating Insect: This excursion sheds light on the challenges faced by the forest due to the bark beetle infestation. Witnessing the impact firsthand and learning about mitigation strategies empowers participants to become advocates for forest health.
Mycology: The Forest Through the Eyes of a Mushroom: This fascinating walk, led by a passionate mycologist, unveils the ecological and medicinal significance of mushrooms. You’ll discover how these seemingly simple organisms play a vital role in the forest’s well-being.
Mowing the Mountain Meadows: Embark on a journey with a young Ladin farmer, learning the art and science of mowing. Witness the traditional techniques used to maintain the meadows and understand the ecological importance of this practice. The tour concludes with a visit to a barn and hayloft, offering a glimpse into the life of a mountain farmer.
Alta Badia Eco-Hiker: This initiative tackles the problem of littering on hiking trails. Equipped with gloves and bio-bags, participants actively contribute by collecting waste left behind, ensuring a cleaner environment for everyone. The experience culminates in a picnic, a token of appreciation for their environmental commitment.
Renasciüda: Rebirthing the Forest
The devastating storm Vaia in 2018 left scars on the landscape. Renasciüda, meaning “rebirth” in Ladin, signifies Alta Badia’s unwavering spirit. This annual event allows anyone to participate in replanting trees near the Campolongo Pass, actively contributing to restoring the affected areas.
Carless: Encouraging Sustainable Transportation
The Carless campaign incentivizes tourists to explore the region without their cars. Upon arrival, guests can hand in their car keys, receiving a benefit card offering discounts on taxi services, excursions, and entry to local attractions. This not only reduces traffic congestion but also promotes a greener way of exploring the area.
Immersing Yourself in Nature: Food Forests and Green Mobility
Alta Badia is fostering innovative projects to further enhance its eco-friendly approach.
Food Forest: This unique concept involves creating a self-sustaining ecosystem where trees, shrubs, and medicinal plants grow together. Visitors can take self-guided tours through the Masisti forest at the Campolongo Pass, learning about the various species while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Green Mobility: Alta Badia prioritizes reducing CO2 emissions from traffic. The summer opening of lifts encourages sustainable transportation by allowing exploration of the mountains car-free. Additionally, e-bike sharing allows for effortless exploration of the region, reaching even the Movimënt parks at an altitude of 2,000 meters.
Conserving Every Drop: The Importance of Water
Alta Badia promotes responsible water consumption by discouraging the use of plastic bottles. They encourage guests to utilize tap and fountain water, offering refillable branded bottles to minimize environmental impact.
Beyond Green: A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Sustainability in Alta Badia extends beyond environmental concerns. Their GSTC certification highlights their commitment to three other pillars:
Socio-Economic Sustainability: By involving local producers and farmers in tourism initiatives, such as farm breakfasts and cooking courses, Alta Badia strengthens the local economy and community spirit.
Cultural Sustainability: The “Nos Ladins-We Ladins” events offer visitors the opportunity to connect with Ladin culture through authentic experiences, fostering cultural appreciation and preservation.
Sustainable Management: An internal “green team” works tirelessly on implementing sustainable practices throughout the region. This commitment ensures long-term environmental and cultural well-being.
