Systemic thinking in mountain research impacts

Abstract

Tourism research often struggles to demonstrate its tangible influence on governance. This commentary presents a case in Valais, Switzerland, where sustained collaboration between academic institutions, public authorities, and industry translated scientific insights into tourism policy and practice. Several studies conducted in the region, including research on summer glacier skiing, contributed to climate adaptation, risk management, and destination resilience. Academic teams acted as trusted intermediaries by connecting research and decision-making through workshops, media engagement, and advisory roles. This long-term cooperative model supported knowledge transfer, informed cantonal climate strategies, guided tourism diversification, and stimulated public debate, illustrating how research can foster innovative governance and resilience in mountain regions.