In her lecture, entitled "Healthy people only exist on a healthy Earth", doctor and public health activist Bea Albermann showed that both are currently at risk. The climate crisis, the biodiversity crisis and pollution are "the three great crises of our time". A sustainable systemic change is needed, because "climate protection is health protection". She called on participants not only to focus on their ecological footprint, but above all to become politically active.

Learning to deal with heat

The Alpine region is strongly affected by global warming; the last two summers were hotter than ever before. Heat imposes great stress on the body and can lead to cardiovascular problems, dehydration, heat stroke and more deaths. The first Liechtenstein Future Forum Alps, held at the end of June, was dedicated to the question of how Alpine residents and the Alps as a habitat can remain healthy. Around 140 participants at the international conference in Schaan/LI discussed this issue, networked and exchanged knowledge. Sabine Monauni, Liechtenstein’s Deputy Head of Government and Minister of the Interior, Economy and Environment, in her opening speech demanded: "We have to anchor a resource-conserving and sustainable lifestyle in our culture".

The healing power of the Alps

In addition, the Alpine region also offers enormous potential for improved health, as immunologist Arnulf Hartl from the Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg/A showed in his lecture. Mountain sports enthusiasts suffer from fewer mental illnesses and experience more positive emotions. In addition, their immune systems and sense of balance are strengthened. The air is much better than down on the plains: "We have to imagine the Alps as a green island in a sea of fine dust", he explained. This means that the Alpine countries have an enormous health potential that must be used, but above all preserved.

What does a healthy Alpine diet look like? What can be done against heat islands in cities? How do we deal with the increasing risk of infectious diseases from mosquitoes and ticks? How can we make our mobility more environmentally friendly? The ideas and suggestions of participants were sought during the afternoon workshops and in-depth discussions. A walk to address biodiversity and quality of life in Schaan, a visit to the Clinicum Alpinum psychiatric clinic in Gaflei, a mobility hackathon and the preparation of healthy snacks on the second day completed the varied programme.

For the conference results see: www.zukunftsforumalpen.li