Galanthus Nivalis: Towards an Integrated Sustainable Territorial Development in the Dolomites, Italy

Mountain regions across the globe, from Italy to Uganda, are under growing pressure from a mix of environmental, social, and economic challenges. Climate change, biodiversity loss, shifting land use, pollution, and the transformation of local livelihoods are reshaping these unique landscapes. Human activities like tourism and urban development have left their mark, making people both the beneficiaries and the drivers of change in these fragile environments. These intertwined issues reveal how deeply connected mountain ecosystems, local economies, and cultural traditions are—and how urgently they need sustainable, holistic solutions. The effects of climate change, for example, are not just environmental; they ripple through the social and economic fabric of mountain and lowland communities. Rising temperatures, shrinking glaciers, and dwindling biodiversity affect water supplies, increase natural hazards, and disrupt livelihoods. Tourism adds another layer of complexity. While it can promote environmental and cultural conservation, unchecked growth and mass tourism often lead to exploitation and degradation. Achieving a balance between economic opportunity and environmental preservation requires innovative ideas, community involvement, and responsible investment. Despite their importance, mountain regions are often overlooked in national policies, seen as remote or less urgent than lowland urban areas. This neglect leaves mountain communities struggling with limited resources and infrastructure, even though they provide essential ecosystem services, raw materials, and recreational spaces that benefit far-reaching populations. Case studies from the European Alps and Uganda’s Karamoja region offer valuable insights. The Dolomites, for instance, face challenges like pollution, over-tourism, and the decline of traditional livelihoods such as pastoralism. In contrast, Karamoja is at the start of its tourism journey and has the opportunity to learn from the Dolomites’ experience, potentially avoiding overdevelopment by focusing on sustainable practices like slow tourism and ecotourism. Ultimately, mountain areas are invaluable—not only as ecological treasures but also as socio-economic and cultural lifelines. They must be treated as complex systems where nature, culture, and livelihood intersect. Policies and development efforts must reflect the unique needs of these regions, balancing conservation with community well-being. As awareness of the critical role mountains play in our global ecosystem grows, so does the opportunity to invest in their sustainable future.