Economic Impacts Living near the Alps can have its benefits, especially for the local economy. 1. Farming
The fold mountains of the Alps are used to farm sheep, goats and cattle. In the summer months, the animals are moved further up the slope to graze.
The water from melting snow is used to generate hydro-electric power (where moving water is used to create electricity).
2. Hydro-electric power 3. Tourism
Many people visit the Alps to ski or snowboard in winter, or hike or climb in summer. The income generated by tourism can provide a better standard of living for locals.
Social Impacts However, life in the mountains can be difficult.
1. Accessibility
Many parts of the Alps are difficult to access as slopes can be very steep. Road- building is a costly venture.
2. Soil
Soil can be thin and poor quality, allowing only for rough-grazing, which can make farming difficult or unprofitable.
3. Avalanches
Devastating avalanches happen when snow and ice suddenly come loose and crash down mountain slopes.
1. Name the two plates that collided to form the Alps. 2. Describe two economic and two social impacts of fold mountains for people living in the Alpine region.
