Mobility in mountain regions

TThe study of mobility in mountain regions has received far less attention compared to densely populated areas. Challenges are nonetheless non-negligible. First, low population density and dispersion make mass public transport services difficult to implement. Second, complex terrains increase the cost of infrastructures and the length of journeys. Third, dependency on cars tends to be high. Consequently, negative externalities arise: higher carbon emissions per capita, lack of accessibility for non-drivers, visitors’ dependency on cars (noise, congestion, limited infrastructure and parking capacity), and loss of population, services and competitiveness. Mobility in mountain regions must be properly addressed by researchers and practitioners. This session invites interdisciplinary studies on residents’ and tourists’ mobility. The following topics are suggested as research gaps: 1. Sources of data to analyse mobility 2. Empirical works on mobility behaviour 3. Mobility planning and its relationship with urban planning 4. Public transport solutions 5. Shared mobility 6. Best practice analysis 7. Policy proposals. Alternative relevant related topics might fall into the scope of the session, and therefore also considered. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of the key mobility dynamics that shape individuals’ mobility decisions and the actions to make mobility more sustainable and socially equitable and to sustain competitiveness. This session is coordinated under the umbrella of research project ADAPTOUR led by the Territorial Analysis and Tourism Studies Research Group of the Rovira i Virgili University.