ATIRA, Alta Badia in action for a sustainable territorial development
Amur, Teritore, Insegnamënt, Respet, Ambiënt: words that do not need translation and whose initials breathe life into ATIRA - a series of meetings and excursions aimed at raising residents‘ and visitors’ awareness on issues of crucial importance for a sustainable development of the territory. ATIRA is your chance to become a guardian of the Dolomites yourself: accompanied by our experts, you will not only discover fascinating aspects of the alpine world but you will also learn how to actively contribute to safeguarding our territory. An opportunity to bond with the nature of the Dolomites, which is the heritage of us all and therefore demands respect from everyone.
Biodiversity
A closer look
Mountain ecosystems rely on finely balanced relationships in which every element plays a role.
In our forests, mushrooms are a key component of this system. They recycle nutrients, support tree growth and help sustain biodiversity. Much of this activity remains unseen, yet it is essential to the health of the environment.
During guided mycological excursions, participants gain insight into this hidden world, learning to identify different species and to understand the importance of responsible behaviour in preserving these natural processes.
Awareness
Understanding to preserve
The protection of mountain environments begins with knowledge and informed awareness.
Within the natural parks, visitors engage with protected landscapes where the relationship between human activity and natural systems is particularly evident. Together with local experts they gain insight into the area’s geological features, plant communities and wildlife habitats.
This perspective fosters a more considered way of experiencing the landscape and underlines how individual behaviour can contribute meaningfully to its long-term conservation.
Safety
Knowing how to move
Time in the mountains calls for awareness, preparation and good judgement.
During dedicated sessions with the Alpine Rescue Service, you gain a clear understanding of the realities of mountain risk through real cases and firsthand insights. These perspectives highlight how quickly situations can change and why informed decisions matter.
From planning a route to choosing the right equipment and reading conditions, the focus is on practical knowledge that helps you move with confidence and responsibility in the alpine environment.
Good to know
What is the Wow Nature project about and why is it of great importance?
The project, initiated by the University of Padua’s spin-off “Etifor”, focuses on the ecological restoration of woods and forests affected by storm Vaia through cleaning the damaged areas, planting new trees and upkeeping selected areas. As of today, more than 3,000 trees have been planted, including larches and firs.
What’s a food forest and where do I find it?
The Food Forest, also known as forest garden, is a multifunctional cultivation of trees, plants, medicinal and officinal herbs, berries and other fruits of the forest. Since 2021, Alta Badia’s Food Forest can be found in the woods of Bosco Masisti, near the Campolongo Pass. Discover it up close.
What is the bark beetle and why is it so dangerous for our forests?
The bark beetle is a small beetle that occurs naturally in the spruce forests of the Alps. Great amounts of trees that had been damaged during storm Vaia allowed the bark beetle to increase its presence from an endemic to an epidemic state, thereby causing severe damages to our forests.
Is it safe to drink mountain water?
The water gushing from the springs in the Dolomites is of excellent quality. A precious resource that we like to share with our visitors. With the initiative entitled “Ega”, we want to raise our guests' awareness of a proper behaviour: stop using plastic, refill your water bottle and enjoy nature.
How can I participate in ATIRA's initiatives and why should I do it?
ATIRA allows you to become a guardian of the Dolomites: accompanied by our experts, you will not only discover interesting facts of the alpine world but you will also learn how to actively contribute to preserving our territory. Let yourself be captivated by ATIRA.