With your help, we can protect Alpine biodiversity and bridge the gap between science and society.

The project aims to conduct in-depth research into how alpine ecosystems respond to climate change, in order to anticipate future changes and guide their conservation. It also aims to bring science to the wider public, inspire a sense of wonder at mountain nature, and encourage public involvement in data collection and the protection of biodiversity.

High-mountain ecosystems are on the front line of climate change. In the Alps, warming is occurring at a faster rate than in the rest of France, whilst these areas are facing increased pressure from the growth and diversification of recreational human activities such as hiking and mountain running. The species inhabiting this climatic mosaic are adapted to extreme conditions, making them highly sensitive to disturbances and turning them into key indicators of environmental impact.

Understanding how living systems respond to these changes is crucial for anticipating the future of these habitats. However, much of the general public is unaware of the processes taking place in the mountains, and science is often perceived as something distant or confined to laboratories. It is therefore vital to build direct bridges between the scientific community and society, sparking curiosity and providing tools so that anyone can get involved.

To this end, CREA Mont-Blanc operates on the basis of three key pillars: scientific research, citizen science and the dissemination of knowledge. The organisation analyses changes in the Alpine environment and makes its data openly available so that members of the public, students and decision-makers can play an active role in preserving this natural heritage.

• Field research and monitoring through rigorous ecological tracking of alpine flora and fauna to assess the impact of climate change and human activity.

• Management of participatory projects for phenological observations and for identifying wildlife using camera traps.

• Organisation of scientific field trips with schoolchildren, guided walks, film screenings, talks and outdoor sporting activities linked to science.

• Publication and open access to studies and measurements.

It directly benefits citizens, students, local communities, hikers and land managers, who gain training, access to open data and the opportunity to participate actively in research. At an environmental level, it has a positive impact on the alpine ecosystems and biodiversity of the Mont Blanc massif and cross-border areas, improving our understanding of them and the measures taken to preserve them.

CREA Mont-Blanc