Balancing Conservation with Sports: Sustainability Challenges and Solutions

The increasing popularity of outdoor sports like trail running and hiking presents both opportunities and challenges for mountain environments. This session aims to explore how to balance recreational access with the need to conserve these fragile ecosystems. Key topics may include the sustainability issues associated with digital trail platforms such as Strava and Wikiloc. While these platforms promote community engagement in outdoor activities, they also contribute to overcrowding and increased pressure on sensitive areas. We could discuss the challenges of managing digital routes, particularly when they intersect with private land or protected zones. Another focus could be on the development of certification schemes to evaluate the sustainability of mountain sports events. The Green Trail Concept (GTC) project, developed by the Kilian Jornet Foundation as part of an ERASMUS+ initiative, aims to address these challenges by enhancing the management of trail running events through sustainable practices across social, economic, and environmental dimensions. This certification model not only evaluates the sustainability of events but also guides organizers toward more eco-friendly planning, raising awareness and fostering a culture of responsible trail management. This session could be part of a focused event where the KJF invites various experts to give talks on topics like sustainable trail management, including a presentation specifically about the GTC project. Additionally, we could host a workshop for race organizers and environmental managers to introduce them to the GTC tool.