Forum Alpinum 2024

Biodiversity and geodiversity are under severe threat - worldwide and especially in sensitive ecosystems like the Alps. The Alps are the habitat for more than 30,000 animal and 13,000 plant species and play an outstanding role for biodiversity in Europe, whether as a habitat for specialized species not found elsewhere, for species that need to adapt to climate change or as a driver of evolution. Further, ecosystems in the Alpine region assume important functions by protecting infrastructure from natural hazards and preventing soil erosion or landslides. However, the Alps are also one of the most intensively used mountain ranges in the world, and their ecosystems are nowadays under severe pressure due to their use for (partly extensive) tourism, renewable energy, agriculture, etc.

This ForumAlpinum will identify hot spots of bio- and geodiversity and their management in the Alps, analyze land use conflicts and their impact on bio- and geodiversity, and assess the relevance of bio- and geodiversity protection in the regional, national or international context to discuss possible solutions.

We are looking forward to your participation and your expertise regarding one refuge of bio- and geodiversity in Europe - the Alps!