Flache, Friedo (2026) Climate mitigation as adaptation through the business perspective: Climate adaptation perspectives in low-altitude ski resort Winterberg. Master thesis, Cultural Geography - Climate Adaptation Governance (CAG).
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Abstract
Low-altitude ski resorts are among the first and most impacted industries by climate change. Research on snow production and diversification has received increasing attention, but research on local perspectives on climate adaptation has remained limited, with local residents, in particular, underrepresented. This study aims to explore the perspectives of stakeholders and local residents on climate adaptation in a low altitude ski resort. The goal is to answer the research question: How are climate adaptation measures related to ski resorts perceived by local residents and stakeholders? This research uses an interpretive qualitative approach, making use of semi-structured interviews. Seven interviews, including experts, stakeholders, and independent local residents have been conducted in Winterberg, Germany. An inductive coding strategy was used alongside thematic analysis. Findings indicate a realistic perception of climate change, contrary to the literature. Snow production is seen as the most important climate adaptation, with experts and stakeholders strongly believing that temperature-independent snow production can mitigate the effects of climate change in the future. Across participant interviews, the dependence on the tourism industry shapes all other aspects, as it links climate adaptation and the ski industry to the economic viability of Winterberg. Snow production and diversification are framed as business decisions rather than climate adaptation. Stakeholders see diversification within the tourism sector, whereas local residents express concern about tourism dependence and suggest diversification outside the sector. The findings suggest that personal business involvement in the tourism sector shapes views on climate adaptation. Finally this study introduces a new perspective that climate mitigation actions can be locally perceived as climate adaptation when viewed through a business perspective. Stakeholders frame investments in sustainability as responses to the negative public and political image of winter sports under climate change.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
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| Name supervisor: | Rosenbergova, S. |
| Date Deposited: | 02 Jul 2026 07:59 |
| Last Modified: | 02 Jul 2026 07:59 |
| URI: | https://campus-fryslan.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/879 |
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