Climate Study Insights for the Tourism Sector: Analysis of Selected Pilot Regions in Croatia

Understanding the impacts of climate change on key economic sectors is essential for developing effective adaptation strategies. The tourism sector in Croatia, a country with diverse climatic regions, is particularly sensitive to changes in climate variables such as air temperature and precipitation. This study aims to analyze essential climate variables for the period 1961–2023 across different climatic regions of Croatia, including Varaždin (representing Northern Continental Croatia), LičkoLešće (Mountain region), and Mali Lošinj and Rijeka (Northern-Eastern Adriatic coastal areas).

In addition to linear trend and 5-year moving average analysis of climate variables for the period 1961-2023 a comparison between these variables was made for two 30-year standard climate periods:  1961-1990 and 1991-2020, respectively. A comparison of climate characteristics for cited two standard periods are compared with those for the period 2071-2100 using projection data of global climate models. Interpretation of the results is focused on their application to adaptation planning to mitigate impacts of global climate warming on touristic sector in Croatia.

The results emphasize the significance of shifting climate characteristics across these regions and their potential implications for tourism adaptation planning. By focusing on these changes, this study aims to support the development of robust strategies to mitigate the impacts of global warming on Croatia's tourism sector. Access to reliable climate data and projections is critical for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of this vital economic sector in the face of ongoing climate change.

Acknowledgment: This research was conducted in the scope of the research project COMMITMENT, financed by Institute for Tourism through Next Generation Fund (CroRis ID- 9574).