Lech has maintained the reputation of being the paradise of skiers because of its luxury winter resorts and summer holiday destinations. The place has the best integration of the architecture and the natural environment creating a carefully selected mix that promotes business and environmental, cultural and social conservation. It was awarded the most beautiful village in Europe among others because of its responsible tourism practices and vast supply of skiing terrains. With more than 110km of piste and other sporting facilities, Lech qualifies as a world-class tourism destination. It recognizes the World Tourism Organization Global Code of Ethics which endeavors to promote responsible, sustainable and universal sustenance of tourism to eliminate poverty. It also considers the environmental impacts of tourism by engaging in activities that conserve the environment.
Lech has observed the provisions of the Cape Town Declaration on responsible Tourism in order to remain responsible destination area. It recognizes the fact that responsible tourism needs the practice of a broad range of government agencies especially local governments to promote good governance and political goodwill as well as impose limits to tourism development to achieve cultural, social and environmental integrity. This is manifested in the management of the village. The Lech zoning policy governs the development of residential buildings and safety grounds. Bed capacity is limited to 10,000 in a single building.
The ownership is 100% local and foreigners are not allowed to own property in Lech. This ensures that the returns get to the local people. Most of the residents in Lech work for tourism industry. Farmers rent out their lands to be used as piste in winter earning extra income.
Lech was originally an agricultural land with majors in dairy farming and animal husbandry. The place was initially remote, and lack of infrastructure impacted on its accessibility to the outside world. However, the introduction of skiing and other winter sports made it a tourism destination up to date. Tourism development has lead to the improvement of infrastructure such as building of train, airports and roads that eases access. Oberlech Tunnel System is an example. Pollution, waste management and energy developments have advanced and improved the ecology of the village to be in tandem with the Cape Town Convention regulations. A biomass plant provides sufficient power needs for all residents.
I recommend that in order to develop more responsible tourism and promote the elimination of poverty in Lech, the federal and local governments should consider increasing funding for non-tourism related practices such as agriculture to supplement locals earning during summer.
References
Cape Town Conference on Responsible Tourism in Destinations. (2002). CAPE TOWN DECLARATION . Cape Town.
