Vitalpin: Barrier-Free Summit Victories - Social Sustainability On The Mountain

In the monthly tourism podcast "Bergegnungen", Theresa Haid, Managing Director of Vitalpin, and well-known experts examine current tourism topics as well as challenges and opportunities in the industry.

Marianne Hengl, chairman of RollOn Austria, tells hostess Theresa Haid how she climbed a mountain in her wheelchair for the first time in 2014 and what an indescribably beautiful experience it was for her.

The reason for this overwhelming mountain experience was the TV format "Gipfel-Sieg", which Marianne Hengl initiated together with the ORF and the support of the Austrian cable cars.

“Disabled people are either overrated or marginalized”

Hengl explains that it is important to her to show that people with disabilities are just as capable of overcoming challenges and experiencing happiness at the top of a mountain. The series is also intended to help ensure that people with disabilities are no longer overrated or marginalized, but are recognized as full members of society.

Social sustainability on the mountain

For older people, people with a walking disability, but also for those who are traveling with a stroller, cable cars are often the only way to reach a mountain peak. It is hardly surprising that Hengl sees the cable cars not only as a means of ascent for skiers, but also as an infrastructure that enables people with disabilities to have incredible experiences. However, social sustainability in particular is often overlooked in public discussions. The 38 broadcast episodes of "Gipfel-Sieg" could not have been realized without the support of the numerous barrier-free mountain railways. 

"We must treat our environment with respect"

"I am very grateful that through our social initiatives we can create awareness among many people and convey a special message," says Hengl. But it is also important to Marianne Hengl - especially when talking about mountain experiences - to break a lance for the appreciative treatment of our nature. 

Further information and the podcast to listen to: www.vitalpin.org/podcast