Andermatt Community Building Research Project Initial Findings Published In White Paper
Andermatt Swiss Alps AG is carrying out a research project funded by Innotour (SECO) together with Bregaglia Engadin Turismo and the Graubünden University of Applied Sciences. The aim is to research the development of sustainable communities in destinations in mountain regions and thus make a targeted contribution to the year-round revitalization of tourist regions. A current white paper scientifically summarizes the current state of knowledge for those interested.
Swiss destinations in mountain regions face the challenge – at the level of tourism and living space – of revitalizing their communities all year round. One approach to reducing seasonal fluctuations in destinations and at the same time combining tourism and living space is “community building”. To date, however, there is still little practical knowledge about how destinations can specifically build (holistic) communities and consciously revitalize them destinations can use.
The creation of resilient communities is an approach to reducing seasonal fluctuations in Alpine destinations. In the research project “Development of sustainable communities in destinations in mountain regions”, “communities” are understood as networks with a group identity that are made up of different constellations of locals, second homes, guests, employees and/or employers in destinations (in mountain regions).
The white paper from the three organizations shows that three areas are central to the development of communities - at the center of every community is their understanding of identity, which is shaped by common goals and values. Collective experiences emphasize the importance of rituals and traditions, whereas structure creates the operational framework. Interpersonal encounters and interactions are essential for well-being and can therefore have a positive impact on the attractiveness of a living and tourism area.
The authors come to the conclusion that building and expanding a resilient community is time-consuming and costly. Communities require coordination, maintenance and moderation, which in turn emphasizes the targeted activation of individual community members.
