ABSTRACT
The Alps are a major tourism resource and destination on the world scene. This case introduces the development dilemma of tourism in the Alps. On completion of this case you will:
Be aware of the attraction of the Alps for tourism development.
Understand the potential social impacts of tourism as the Alps move away from an economy based upon agriculture.
Recognise the potentially damaging impacts of tourism development upon the Alpine environment.
Be aware of the development dilemma faced by the Alpine communities as they attempt to reconcile the economic benefits of tourism with its more negative impacts.
Recognise that the decentralised political system of Austria and Switzerland firmly places these development issues within the decision-making powers of local communities.
