Économie et Tourisme : Esprit Montagne se lance dans les Jeux et vise l’horizon 2030

IN BRIEF

  • Economic impact of mountain tourism estimated at 20 billion € (2018-2019).
  • Objective of enhancing attractiveness of the French mountains for clients by 2030-2035.
  • The 2030 program aims to combat extreme poverty and inequalities.
  • Initiatives to attract tourists to the Savoie region post-Covid.
  • Faires Ensemble 2030 games to raise awareness on Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Creation of a new mountain collective to diversify the offering.
  • 2030 Olympic Games: opportunities for the mountain economic sector.
  • Sustainable tourism as a crucial issue in the face of climate disruption.

The mountain economy and tourism sector faces unprecedented development challenges, particularly through the Esprit Montagne initiative, which is firmly committed to the Olympic Games projects on the horizon of 2030. This approach aims not only to boost the attractiveness of the French mountains but also to strengthen its economic and social impact. With economic returns estimated at 20 billion euros between 2018 and 2019, mountain tourism constitutes an essential pillar for these regions, engaging in a dynamic of sustainability and innovation.

The challenges of mountain tourism

Mountain tourism represents a key sector for the local economy, generating a turnover of 1.3 billion euros. This activity emerged in the 50s and 60s and evolved to become a major component of the economy in Alpine and Savoie territories. However, the upcoming challenges posed by climate disruptions and environmental risks call for a reassessment of the tourism approach, garnering support from local stakeholders for more sustainable development.

Attractiveness of the French Mountains

By 2030-2035, Atout France’s ambition is to “attract more French and European clients.” This strategic objective aligns with a context where the attractiveness of mountain resorts must be rethought to address the new expectations of consumers, while respecting sustainability principles. Initiatives like that of Esprit Montagne aim to meet this need through strengthened collaboration between economic stakeholders.

The 2030 program: A framework for the future

Tourism within the framework of the “Faires Ensemble 2030” program presents itself as an ambitious plan aimed at raising awareness among sector stakeholders about Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This program establishes a necessary global framework to combat inequalities and injustices while addressing the effects of climate change. By integrating these concepts into the development of mountain tourism, the region aims to create a beneficial synergy for the local economy and the environment.

A committed collective for the future

The creation of a mountain collective, announced for mid-2022, resonates with other local initiatives such as the lakes collective of 2014 or the hiking collective of 2020. This new framework brings together various stakeholders in the sector to promote diversity and cooperation. Sports and tourism are naturally integrated into this dynamic of innovation and experience sharing, directly connecting Esprit Montagne to the major projects that will mark this decade.

The 2030 Olympic Games: An opportunity to seize

The 2030 Olympic Games represent an opportunity for the economic world of the mountains. This long-term vision allows for a projection towards a future where harmony between economic development and environmental respect becomes paramount. Mountain stakeholders are called to revolutionize their practices to elevate France’s image on the international stage while affirming their role in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism.