2.1.1 Exposure

Exposure refers to the nature and degree to which a system is exposed to significant climatic variations (IPCC 2001). The term relates to the degree of climate stress upon a particular unit of analysis; it may be represented as either long-term changes in climate conditions or changes in climate variability, including the magnitude and frequency of extreme events (McCarthy et al. 2001). As discussed in the previous section, the 7 indicators presented above were chosen to depict it:

1. Changes in climate suitability for touism activities
2. Snowpack reduction
3. Glaciers melting
4. Permafrost melting 
5. Natural hazards 
6. Water scarcity - drought
7. Scenic beauty

A more detailed list of the indicators chosen could be found HERE

Results

Exposure appears to be higher in mountain regions. Eastern Graubunden and the Southern Valais are particularly exposed, mostly due the accumulated impacts of glaciers and permafrost melting, and changes in scenic beauty. Zermatt Matterhorn, Engadin St. Moritz, Saas-Fee / Saastal, Sion Region - Les 4 vallées et Evolène, and Sierre - Anniviers are the top 5 exposed regions. Less exposed are lowland regions located in proximity of lakes and the plateau in general (Zuerichsee, Region of Lake Murten, Zug Region, The Lakes Region, Geneva Region). These regions will also partly benefit from the effects of climate change at a 2050 time horizon (better climate conditions in comparison).

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