Rock climbing and sustainability: Environmental impact, management challenges, and behavioural change

09:00 - 10:30
Speaker
Affiliation

Sofie Paulus

Sport Ecology, Bayreuth Center of Sport Science (BaySpo) and Bayreuth Center of Ecology and Environmental Research (BayCEER), University of Bayreuth, Germany

Date

Jun 27, 2026

Abstract

Outdoor climbing has evolved from a niche activity into a global sport practiced by more than 50 million people worldwide. This rapid growth increases the need for effective management strategies to mitigate environmental impacts and promote sustainable behaviour among climbers.

This talk addresses two key dimensions of sustainability in outdoor climbing: the ecological impact of route development and the challenges of sustainable mobility. To assess the impact of first ascents on rock vegetation, we conducted an experimental study on three boulders of different rock types. Across 500 ascents, changes in vegetation cover at handholds and footholds were systematically documented. The results show that the most substantial impact occurs during the initial phase of ascending a new route, with particularly strong effects at footholds and on sandstone, which is more prone to erosion than granite or limestone.

In addition, we investigated mobility behaviour in climbing contexts, focusing on the concept of “Ecopointing” - the use of low-impact transport modes such as walking, cycling, or public transport to access climbing areas. Surveys conducted during the Frankenjura climbing festivals in 2022 and 2024 revealed that car use remains dominant, primarily due to perceived time efficiency and accessibility. While awareness of Ecopointing increased from 51% (2022) to 71% (2024), and nearly 80% of participants who adopted it reported positive experiences, this did not translate into a significant increase in its regular application.

Our research highlights a gap between awareness and behavioural change. Promoting sustainable climbing practices therefore requires not only information but also structural support and a willingness within the climbing community to accept limitations. Collaborative approaches involving climbers, researchers, conservationists, and other stakeholders may be key to fostering long-term change. In particular, participatory initiatives that actively engage climbers in sustainability efforts appear promising for strengthening awareness and encouraging low-impact practices.