Dossiers

Climate change and the Alps

Globally the 1990s were the warmest decade since reliable instrument recordings began in 1860; they were very possibly also the warmest in the past one thousand years. For the Alpine countries, these latest findings are of particular significance for the hydrosphere, i.e. the hydrological cycle, and the cryosphere, i.e. snow and ice. Future winters will be characterised by less snow and more rain. Even a 1 °C increase in temperature means the average duration of the snow cover in certain regions will be reduced by 4 to 6 weeks. Hope for the future in the climate dilemma rests with municipal energy policies, the greater use of renewable energies, and the promotion of a sustainable economic approach and lifestyle.

Climate change and the Alps

Globally the 1990s were the warmest decade since reliable instrument recordings began in 1860; they were very possibly also the warmest in the past one thousand years. For the Alpine countries, these latest findings are of particular significance for the hydrosphere, i.e. the hydrological cycle, and the cryosphere, i.e. snow and ice. Future winters will be characterised by less snow and more rain. Even a 1 °C increase in temperature means the average duration of the snow cover in certain regions will be reduced by 4 to 6 weeks. Hope for the future in the climate dilemma rests with municipal energy policies, the greater use of renewable energies, and the promotion of a sustainable economic approach and lifestyle.

Modern architecture in the Alps

The building methods which have typically been used in Alpine regions have always focused on the needs of the population living there and the necessities of survival. It is therefore an architectural style which has been dictated by the limitations and peculiarities of the regions themselves. The old buildings which are today considered typical or traditional are not the result of informed decisions, but the consequences of necessity. The different settlements, houses, stables, places of worship and outbuildings were built not according to particular architectural styles or personal tastes, but as a consequence of binding criteria and based on a balance which had to be struck. So is there such a thing as a modern architecture in the Alps?

Energy-efficient houses made from timber sourced from the Alpine region

Do you actually know how much money your house is losing you by using energy inefficiently? Why not save it instead - and treat yourself to a comfortable, healthy living environment into the bargain, with plenty of sunlight within your own four walls.<br/>This Dossier is designed to help you do just that. It contains information on energy-efficient, resource-friendly construction and renovation methods and provides suggestions and advice on the use of locally sourced timber as a building material and fuel type.<br/>Besides a background report you will also find instances of good practice well worth emulating, cross-links to the relevant literature and events, and also information on the latest developments in the area of sustainable building in the Alpine region. <br/>The Dossier is the result of a project carried out in 2004 by CIPRA, the International Commission for the Protection of the Alps, on behalf of the Principality of Liechtenstein.