La retorica della sostenibilità: indicatori territoriali e ricerca sul campo in Alta Valtellina

The Rhetoric of Sustainability: Territorial Indicators and Field Research in Alta Valtellina This paper compares statistical data on environmental sustainability with the governmental actions of the territory, which really affect the protection of the landscape and ecosystem elements. Case study is the Alta Valtellina, and the work focuses on Lago Bianco at the Gavia Pass, a remnant specimen of arctic tundra in the Stelvio National Park, exploited to capture water for artificial snow-making on ski slopes. This research shows the socio-cultural and economic dynamics underlying the relationship between mountain environment, protected nature, tourism and population, which recount experiences of vulnerability, lack of protection and conflict.