Assessing the tourism-traffic paradox in mountain destinations. A stated preference survey on the Dolomites’ passes (Italy)

A balanced mix of incentives and restrictions on private mobility can effectively address the tourism-traffic paradox in ecologically sensitive yet tourism-intensive areas, such as the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. This study quantifies the impact of traffic management measures on tourist demand through a stated preference survey, revealing that alternative transportation must be highly performing—cheap, frequent, integrated, and with extended daily schedules—to mitigate negative side effects. Clear and unavoidable restrictions on private mobility are also crucial. The findings suggest a re-design of tourism and transportation systems as integrated domains to minimize environmental impact while sustaining economic benefits.

Scuttari, A., Orsi, F., & Bassani, R. (2018). Assessing the tourism-traffic paradox in mountain destinations. A stated preference survey on the Dolomites’ passes (Italy). Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 27(2), 241–257. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2018.1428336