Impacts of climate change in the Swiss Alps

Question 1

Flooding and Landslides

Answer 1

• Switzerland = almost all glaciers retreating
• Summer = melting
• Water can be ponded-up behind debris dams and suddenly release.
• F and L hit village of Saas Balen = 3 times in past 50 years.

Question 2

Melting permafrost

Answer 2

• Permafrost covers 5% of Switzerland
• Predicted = thawing = threat of rock avalanches and mudslides
• Under threat; mountain communities, cable cars, chair lifts (anchored in permafrost)
• Ski lifts on Titlis Glacier = repositioned 3-4 times every year.

Question 3

Ecosystems

Answer 3

• Alpine = predicted to change as climate warms
• Rise in temp of 1 degree = treeline pushed up by 100m
• Specialised flora and fauna = extinct
• Habitats will change
• Species threatened

Question 4

Economic costs

Answer 4

• Swiss National Research Programme
• ‘Rise in temps of 2 degrees’ = CHF 3 billion a year
• Affecting winter tourism
• Expensive measures implemented = increased flooding and other natural disasters

Question 5

Ski industry

Answer 5

• Swiss National Science Foundation
• 2050 = resorts (62%) at 1500m only offer skiing for at least 100 days
• Currently = 1200m (85%)
• Low altitude resorts suffering - decrease tourists + local businesses closing