With its unique mountain world, diverse climate and outstanding biodiversity, the Alpine region offers numerous opportunities for healthy living. In contrast to vibrant city life, which is exposed to particulate matter and noise, outdoor recreation in natural environments is increasingly being researched and used for its positive effects on human health. Various natural resources such as forests or waterfalls show measurable health benefits for humans. These health resources lead to a strengthened immune system, better respiratory performance, and improved mental resilience.
The overall goal of the conference is to position the Alpine region as a globally attractive health destination with a vibrant regional economy, especially in the context of after the pandemic.
Therefore, this year’s conference on 8th and 9th October 2021 will focus on nature-based and health-promoting tourism: as a motor out of the crisis – towards a sustainable and innovative development of the Alpine Space.
The Healing Power of the Alps conference is taking place for the third time, this year being jointly organized byITG – Innovation Service for Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University (PMU), Platform Healing Power of the Alps (HDA) and Alpine Network of Protected Areas (ALPARC). For the first time, the symposium spans the entire Alpine region as a joint international initiative of ARGE ALP, BMK , BMLRT , Alpine Convention and EUSALP.
In addition, the conference will provide the framework for the midterm conference of the 11-partner EU Alpine Space Project HEALPS2. A transnational stakeholder workshop on agriculture and tourism will highlight best practices and facilitate exchange and networking.
Top-class speakers, including Lola Uña Cárdenas from the World Travel & Tourism Council, Arnulf Hartl from Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg and Franz Fischler, President of the European Forum Alpbach and former EU Agriculture Commissioner, promise exciting debates.
The target groups of the congress are SMEs from the Alpine regions, tourism businesses, service providers from the trade, regional developers, destination and tourism managers, representatives of tourism associations, representatives from the ARGE-ALP member regions, representatives of the EUSALP and the Alpine Convention, representatives of the BMK and the BMLRT as well as pupils and students with a focus on tourism and regional development. The congress languages are German, Italian, French, Slovenian, and English (simultaneous translation).
“Healing Power of the Alps” is part of a series of events in the framework of the Alpine Convention dedicated to sustainable Alpine tourism. The other two events focused on outdoor sports and sustainable tourism:
„Outdoortourismus mit Fernsicht: Zwischen Klimawandel Nachhaltigkeitsanspruch und Krisenmanagement“ from November 16 to17 2020, online.
“Alpine Landscape meets Culture” from September 28 to 30, 2020, online.