Zermatt Flashcards
What is Zermatt known for?
Zermatt is known for the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the Alps.
How many people visit Zermatt each year, and what is the resident population?
Zermatt receives 2 million visitors each year, with a resident population of 6,000 people, which increases to 35,000 during the height of the ski season.
What are some threats posed by tourism to Zermatt?
Threats of tourism to Zermatt include high demand for energy and water, vehicle emissions, noise pollution, and the expansion of ski resorts and urbanization.
According to WWF, what has been stated about winter ski tourism in the Alps?
WWF has stated that winter ski tourism is one of the most damaging leisure activities in the Alps.
How does Zermatt encourage sustainable tourism practices?
Zermatt is car-free and encourages tourists to travel on foot, bike, or electric public transport. It also promotes sustainable businesses such as the high-altitude restaurant ‘Matterhorn Glacier Palace’ and the use of solar power in new developments like youth hostels.
How does Zermatt Bergbahnen AC contribute to environmental conservation?
Zermatt Bergbahnen AC invests 1 million Swiss francs per year into environmental projects, maintaining ski slopes and conducting tests to rejuvenate them with plant species. They claim that 85% of priority areas have been repaired.
What conservation measures are in place in Zermatt’s forests and wildlife sanctuaries?
Zermatt has 6 protected forests and 10 designated wildlife sanctuaries. Seven plant species are endemic to these areas. Access to these areas is restricted in winter or limited to designated routes, with non-compliance punishable by law.
What controversial proposals were made in 2007 and 2010 regarding development in Zermatt?
n 2007, a proposal was made for a tower with a hotel and restaurant on the Klein Matterhorn, potentially raising the mountain height to 4000m. In 2010, a proposal for a car park for 2000 cars was made, sparking conflict with environmental groups claiming forest loss.
