Integrated Evaluation of Supply and Treatment Systems of Mountain Refuges

Mountain refuges represent important infrastructure for tourism and recreation in the alpine region. Most of them are not connected to central public infrastructure like water and energy supply, wastewater and waste disposal services. Increasing numbers of visitors, new service offers in terms of gastronomy and comfort lead to an increased demand for resources (water, energy) and also higher emissions (wastewater, waste). To protect the alpine ecosystems and resources (freshwater) economical use of water and energy and regular disposal of wastewater and waste is required. The systems for supply and disposal are extraordinary expenses for the operation of a mountain refuge. Alpine associations own most of refuges but are also representing the users, interested in sustainability. Different surrounding conditions like transport, high altitude and season operation require case by case solutions. A comprehensive evaluation of existing systems is missing so far. Due to the interaction of the supply and disposal systems an integrated view is necessary for evaluation. To foster sustainable development guidelines based on existing experiences of alpine associations, planners, legal authorities and operators are needed. The objective is to evaluate the existing supply and disposal systems of mountain refuges for the elaboration of guidelines applicable for planning, construction and operation on international level. The existing methodical background will be adapted for the application at mountain refuges. 100 refuges in Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Slovenia and the Czech Republic were selected for data collection based on evaluation criteria. Existing data will be included in the analysis. Based on the evaluation, problems and optimization potential will be identified.