Sustainability in Hafling-Vöran-Meran 2000

Together for sustainable tourism

Together for a sustainable living space

The Tschögglberg high plateau holiday region was awarded in early 2025 with the internationally recognised GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) sustainability certification and the South Tyrol Sustainability Label Level 3, thanks to the cooperation between the tourist associations of Hafling-Vöran-Meran 2000, Jenesien and Mölten. The goal of this close collaboration is to develop the Tschögglberg high plateau into an even more sustainable tourism destination.

To achieve this goal, a joint strategy was developed outlining how tourism can support local communities and nature without compromising their integrity. The aim is to create a balance between environmental protection, social well-being, and economic viability to preserve and sustainably promote the Tschögglberg high plateau as a worthwile living space.

This process reflects both the results of a carefully developed long-term vision that positioned our destination as a paradise for hiking and nature, and the concrete actions we have already implemented – and will continue to take – to ensure a livable and sustainable future for guests and residents alike.
All joint measures and projects can be found here.

In the following section, we present the specific steps taken by the Hafling-Vöran-Meran 2000 Tourist Association as part of our long-term commitment to a livable and sustainable future. Our activities are based on four main fields of action: management, socio-economy, culture, and ecology.
The following initiatives have already been successfully implemented and demonstrate the dedication of our team in embedding sustainable thinking and action in everyday tourism – for the benefit of people, nature, and our entire holiday region.

Ecological contribution

… within the destination

Information should inspire while being sustainable. Therefore, we use FSC-certified paper from responsibly managed forests, ensuring that our printed materials are produced in an eco-friendly way that respects forests, people, and wildlife. Whenever possible, we avoid printed materials altogether and encourage our guests to download our brochures or read them online.

From office supplies to gadgets and furnishings, we emphasise quality, durability, and environmental responsibility. In doing so, we actively contribute to the responsible use of resources and a more circular local economy.

To reduce plastic waste, guests and locals can refill their bottles free of charge at various water points. This decreases the use of disposable bottles while promoting access to fresh, high-quality mountain water from our region.

Our signage is locally crafted from South Tyrolean wood by regional carpenters. This supports the local economy while harmoniously integrating natural materials into the landscape of the Tschögglberg high plateau.

With the South Tyrol Guest Pass, visitors can explore the region using buses and trains in an eco-friendly way. The pass provides free access to all public transport – a simple, convenient, and sustainable way to travel responsibly.

… within our infrastructure

Since 2025, we have been using only certified renewable electricity in our offices and external facilities, such as garages for maintenance vehicles or the lighting of St. Catherine’s Church. This significantly reduces our CO₂ footprint and demonstrates our commitment to climate protection and sustainable tourism.

Sustainability begins with everyday actions: water-saving toilets, SodaStream systems instead of bottled water, and a mindful approach to consumption. These small measures help conserve resources and set a positive example in our daily work environment.

Sustainability starts with people. Our employees sort waste, take part in local clean-up campaigns, and live sustainability through their daily actions. They are role models within the organisation and ambassadors for responsible practices beyond it.

We provide flexible schedules that align with public transport timetables, allowing our employees to commute easily and sustainably. This is another meaningful step towards everyday climate protection.

Socio-economic contribution

We prefer to buy from South Tyrolean companies. This strengthens the local economy, reduces transport distances, and ensures that value and quality remain within our region.

For construction and maintenance work, we consciously rely on local artisans. This helps secure local jobs, supports regional businesses, and builds long-term trust – an essential contribution to South Tyrol’s value chain.

We actively encourage cooperation between local producers and hospitality businesses. This creates authentic culinary experiences that highlight South Tyrol’s diversity while ensuring short supply chains. Together with the tourist associations of Mölten and Jenesien, we initiated the network Tschögglberg lokal.

People are at the centre of our work. We promote open communication, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development. Health and mutual respect are also integral to our lived organisational culture.

Cultural contribution

Culture connects people. We support local clubs and initiatives such as traditional music bands and theatre associations. Through this engagement, we help preserve traditions and strengthen the sense of community in Hafling and Vöran.

The Haflinger horse is a symbol of our region. Through projects like the Haflinger Adventure Trail and our support for the Haflinger Breeders’ Association, we keep its story alive and foster connections between people, animals, and nature.

Protecting cultural heritage is close to our hearts. In collaboration with local municipalities, we work to preserve the traditional thatched roofs in Verano, safeguarding craftsmanship and heritage for future generations.

Sustainable management

Sustainability thrives on passionate people. Our sustainability manager coordinates projects, raises awareness within the team, and ensures that sustainable practices are integrated across all areas of our organisation – with commitment, foresight, and enthusiasm for change.

Regular evaluations help us identify opportunities and continuously improve. We review internal processes, material usage, and energy consumption to further develop our sustainability strategy. True responsibility means constant learning and adaptation.

Open dialogue with our partners, municipalities, businesses, and guests is essential to us. Through regular meetings, joint projects, and the exchange of ideas, we foster mutual understanding, transparency, and the continuous development of sustainable initiatives in our region.

We see sustainability as a collective task. Through personal exchanges, workshops, and informational initiatives, we share knowledge with regional partners. This creates a strong network that promotes responsible tourism and environmental awareness.

Whether in personal contact, printed materials, or online communication, we share knowledge about the environment, sustainable mobility, and responsible travel. Our goal is to motivate guests, businesses, and residents to make conscious choices and shape change together.

Our member accommodations – including Hotel Chalet Mirabell, Miramonti Boutique Hotel, and Gasthof Waldbichl – have all been awarded the South Tyrol Sustainability Label. They demonstrate that ecological responsibility and high-quality hospitality can go hand in hand.

With every step we take, we aim to show that sustainable tourism is an achievable goal, but also an ongoing journey – driven by responsibility, enthusiasm, and the shared will to guide our living and holiday region into a mindful future.