A diverse territory geared towards tourism. Map by Author, 2020.
This research focuses on Olympiaregion Seefeld (OS), a tourism dependent region in Tyrol (Austria) which is subject to unsuitable trends related to climate precarity. In response to a nascent interest in proactive future planning, my research investigates mobility and spatial development measures contributing to the region’s sustainable development. This research will ensure the region’s preparation for future development and will open up the topic to public debate. My research is made more relevant by the existence of many other tourism-dominated regions facing similar climate-related challenges for whom Olympiaregion Seefeld would provide a relatable precedent.
Scenario methodology. Diagram by Author, 2020.
Olympiaregion Seefeld’s position in the Butler Model. Chart by Author, 2020.
Scenario methodology. Diagram by Author, 2020.
The principal research method constitutes of scenario planning, which provides a framework within which to reflect on the course of action in a period of uncertainty. The three scenarios outlined in the proposal explore the mutual relationship between the region’s varying commitment to tourism with spatial and mobility measures. Other research methods include a literature study, SWOT analysis, interviews, precedent studies, cartography and GIS mapping and - circumstances permitting – fieldwork and photography. The research will culminate in an illustrated spatial vision and strategy.
Drawing matrix and time scale. Infographic by Author, 2020.
What spatial development and mobility measures will enable the sustainable development of the alpine tourism region of Olympiaregion Seefeld?
Land use in Olympiaregion Seefeld in 1990 and in 2018. Map by Author, 2020.
[Data obtained from GIS - Corine Land Use 1990 & 2018.]
An over-reliance on GDP as an indication of progress provides very limited insight on OS's development in time. Therefore, questioning the primacy of GDP as a progress indicator goes hand-in-hand with OS's ability to consider a less tourism intense future. A series of markers reflecting the economic, social and environmental evolution of the territory have been identified. These will be used to compare the scenarios to each other as well as to compared them to the current situation and precedent studies.
Work in Progress
Content by Saskia Tideman