Research project: Liveable Alpine Region
Sustainability and Digitalisation as Keys to a Liveable Alpine Region
What does it take to ensure sustainable tourism in the Alpine region? The research project “Lebenswerter Alpenraum” (“Liveable Alpine Region”) set out to develop participatory, long-term, and viable solutions for sustainable tourism in the German-Austrian Alps. At its core were the local population and the tourism and leisure industry.
Through a multi-year, dialogue-oriented process, new approaches were created to make tourism more digital, sustainable, and community-driven – ensuring the Alpine region is fit for the future.
Key Findings and Insights
Innovation networks strengthen cross-border collaboration
Academic partners – including Salzburg University of Applied Sciences, Johannes Kepler University Linz, and Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences – worked closely with the tourism regions of Salzkammergut and Chiemgau. The project was supported by business partners hey.bayern and hublz. The focus was on developing participatory approaches that address regional needs and promote a liveable Alpine region. These networks are intended to remain in place and foster lasting cooperation across borders
Digital innovations support regional tourism associations
Digital twins, virtual tours, and AR/VR applications are set to play a key role in visitor management and product development. They help make less frequented locations more attractive and improve the distribution of visitor flows. In addition, a gamification approach was implemented via a dedicated app to engage guests with sustainable offers – such as cycling tours – in a playful way.
The project results are now being integrated into regional development strategies, with the shared goal of keeping the Alpine region liveable and lovable for both residents and visitors.
“In essence, the project demonstrates that sustainability and digital innovation are decisive drivers for the future development of tourism and the regional economy,” emphasises Mario Jooss from FH Salzburg.
Project Facts
Duration: November 2022 – October 2025
Budget: €1.1 million (INTERREG project “Lebenswerter Alpenraum”, 2022–2025)
Partners: FH Salzburg, JKU Linz, TH Rosenheim, Chiemgau GmbH, hey.bayern, hublz GmbH, Salzkammergut Tourismus
Focus areas: Mobility, sustainability, digital innovation
Regions: Salzkammergut, Upper Bavaria
