AlpWeek 2024: time for action
The AlpWeek brought together people of all ages from the fields of politics, research, non-profit organisations and civil society to jointly shed light on the most pressing issues – true to the motto “Alps in our hands”.
In her keynote speech, climatologist Lučka Kajfež Bogataj painted a rather bleak picture of the future when she spoke about the limits of climate protection and adaptation to the climate crisis, as we have already exceeded most planetary boundaries. Serena Arduino was more optimistic in her speech: “We have reached a very high level in our biodiversity governance. We should not lower these standards or our expectations when it comes to implementation.” In his input, economic reformer Christian Felber shed light on the vision of a more sustainable, fairer and ethical economy, the “Economy for the Common Good”.
In addition to a film evening and excursions into the surroundings of Nova Gorica, participants were able to join in nine sessions on a wide range of topics. The round table discussion and the lively final round of talks provided further inspiring input. The Alpine region is changing faster than other regions and its nature is approaching a difficult stage, so bold ideas are needed. There was an appeal to everyone to go out and describe the situation to people in clear language in order to create more understanding. “There are enough plans and concepts: now is the time to act”, demanded our president Ingrid Fischer. “We should be efficient and use resources wisely – because we have a responsibility to those who come after us.” The need for greater cross-border cooperation, innovative political measures and the involvement of communities in tackling future challenges was also emphasised.
Another speaker invited the online trend of being “demure” – showing humility or moderation – to be transferred to the Alpine region. “It is time for people to voluntarily limit the multitude of possibilities in order to live well.” Others did not call for humility, but rather for progressive action and the will to change and adapt the Alpine Convention, because new definitions are needed for biodiversity, climate, water and other relevant topics.
At the end of the four days, the participants left with a new sense of responsibility and the inspiration to contribute to the ongoing efforts to preserve the Alps.
About the AlpWeek
The AlpWeek is an international event co-organised by the leading Alpine organisations committed to mountain protection and sustainable development. This year’s event focused on biodiversity and ecosystems; climate change; and quality of life, aligning with the Alpine Conference’s Multi-Annual Work programme (2023-2030). Organisers: Alliance in the Alps, Alpine Town of the Year, CIPRA International, CIPRA Slovenija, Permanent Secretariat of the Alpine Convention, Interreg Alpine Space, ISCAR Alpine Research, Posoški Development Center, WWF as well as Go!2025 Nova Gorica, Kulturni Dom Nova Gorica and the Italian Ministry for the Environment and Energy Security (MASE)
AlpWeek 2024 was financially supported by the Slovenian Presidency of the Alpine Convention.
