Zell am See-Kaprun, Austria, has been recognised as a best practice by the Sustainable EU Tourism project for the development of a climate and energy action plan in collaboration with all stakeholders along the value chain, which led to a series of climate protection and adaptation measures. 

In 2020, due to the vulnerability to and risks of climate change (glacier retreat, lack of snow, extreme weather, decline in permafrost), the municipality applied for the federal programme “Climate and Energy Model Region” and presented a concept focused on tourism that includes 11 climate protection and mitigation measures on topics such as mobility, energy and infrastructure, and sustainable procurement of regional food. The measures concern sustainable mobility solutions, the improvement of energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies, and the reduction of the environmental impact of ski resorts. 

Zell am See-Kaprun's best practice illustrates how destinations impacted by climate change can successfully reduce their environmental footprint and CO₂ emissions through a comprehensive sustainability strategy, supported by coordinated local efforts. For more details on the key challenges the destination has faced, and the solutions implemented to address them, please refer to the attached document.