A visit to the Hautes-Alpes reveals a region that is fully aware of the environmental challenges of today and tomorrow. Far from standing in the way of development, this ecological awareness has shaped a singular path. Adaptation is seen as an opportunity to invent a model where habitat, human activities and landscapes mutually enrich each other.
A preserved territory
The Hautes-Alpes is one of France’s highest departments, the most unspoilt in the Alpine arc, the water tower of Provence, one of Europe’s leading sources of renewable energy thanks to hydroelectricity, France’s leading organic department, a terroir, a tourist destination and a beautiful place to live. Many are aware of this, but few have an accurate grasp of the development drivers of this vast, sparsely populated department with a density of 25.5 inhabitants per km2 (141,617 inhabitants spread over 5,549 km2).
A growing economy
Le tourism and agriculture, the pillars of the region’s wealth and identity, have made a quantum leap in the last ten years, while remaining sober and sustainable. At the same time, the economy has become much more diversified: three out of ten private-sector jobs are now in agrifood, renewable energies, construction, aeronautics or advanced light industry. Just a step aside, the health and care professions are holding their own, despite tensions and a very unfavorable national context, and the Hautes-Alpes is one of France’s best-served départements.
A point of balance
The local economy has its head held high, as shown by the trajectory of its key indicators. In 10 years, the Hautes-Alpes’ GDP, driven by 18,007 companies and local authorities, has leapt forward (+50.3%), and many population centers are at full employment (6.7% departmental average). Our economy is growing, more diversified than you might think, and interconnected across sectors and regions.
The Hautes-Alpes has undergone a metamorphosis. However, we all have a responsibility to strike a balance between preserving and enhancing the exceptional natural environment that is our greatest asset. It’s no coincidence that so many young people choose to settle in France’s highest département. In the Hautes-Alpes, the collective impetus initiated by the Development Agency, in conjunction with all the economic players, is giving substance to Corporate Social Responsibility on a departmental scale. A voluntary approach, reflecting a region where commitment and cooperation forge a shared future.
See also
