Abstract ID: 3.12685 | Not reviewed | Requested as: Talk | TBA | TBA

The European Alps, home to unique biodiversity and vital ecosystem services, are facing challenges, like increasing temperatures and water scarcity due to climate change, in addition to various economic pressures and societal shifts. This PhD research focuses on Slovenian alpine mountain pastures, exploring how they are adapting to the dual pressures of climate change and socio-economic transformation, and what future scenarios might look like for these vulnerable landscapes. The study examines three case studies from the Slovenian Alps. The combination of geo-factors such as relief, soil, and climate with the trajectory of human activity over time makes these areas particularly unique. The research will explore how the interplay between natural and human systems has shaped the sustainability of these pastures, and how this combination will influence future adaptations. By using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative environmental data, historical land use records, and qualitative interviews with members of local communities and experts, the research will identify the ecological, cultural, and socio-political factors that contribute to the resilience of these areas. The study also looks ahead, considering future orientations for mountain pastures in the context of increasing environmental pressures. How will these landscapes evolve? What alternative land-use practices can emerge to ensure their long-term sustainability? The research will contribute to discussions on governance models and policy frameworks, exploring how regional approaches can support sustainable water management, land use, and conservation efforts. Through these insights, the study aims to provide policy recommendations to guide sustainable practices and enhance the resilience of mountain ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.