Abstract ID: 3.12977 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Sustainability transitions are defined as involving interconnected changes in technology, consumer behaviour, business models, policies, and governance (Geels et al., 2016). These long-term changes reshape production and consumption patterns and lifestyle choices (Markard et al., 2012; Loorbach et al., 2017). Transition pathways provide a systemic perspective that guides policy-makers and industries towards a sustainable future (McNally, 2024). Pathways describe the scale and scope of the transition, integrating technological, economic and social factors. In the context of mountain resorts, they highlight challenges and opportunities, particularly in ski tourism, where climate change poses significant risks. Kranjska Gora, a year-round destination, relies heavily on winter tourism, but faces declining snowfall. This threatens the local economy and increases reliance on costly, resource-intensive artificial snowmaking. Meanwhile, summer tourism has led to overtourism, putting pressure on infrastructure and the environment, and reducing the quality of life. The town is also struggling with labour shortages. Increased property demand from tourism inflates house prices, forcing young residents to out-migrate, thus weakening local identity. Participatory research in Kranjska Gora shows that stakeholders are committed to maintaining ski tourism as long as it is economically viable. As there is no systematic funding for snowmaking in Slovenia, the municipality subsidises snowmaking. Efforts are also being made to diversify winter tourism and reduce dependence on skiing. Local stakeholders propose developing a new ski resort management model to reduce uncertainties related to private ownership of ski lifts. The development of alternative winter tourism products requires changes in land use and regulatory changes to allow outdoor activities in ski resorts. Tourism diversification and development also require new regulations of outdoor activities to define responsibilities and address safety issues. Stakeholders argue that government regulations should allow local communities to use tourism tax revenues to address key challenges and improve sustainability. Priorities include affordable housing, public mobility services, and wastewater infrastructure upgrades. A participatory approach to identifying transition processes and development visions is crucial, not only to raise awareness and promote ownership of local development but also to identify policy gaps and