«The institutionalisation of snow and avalanche research in Switzerland that began in the 1930s led to the founding of the Institut für Schnee- und Lawinenforschung SLF (Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF) on the Weissfluhjoch/Davos in 1942. The Institute explores the subject of avalanches in great depth, from application-oriented fundamental research to the development of practice-oriented procedures and the training of experts and decision makers on the regional level. Since the 1970s, avalanche danger zones have been mapped out at the local level in accordance with SLF guidelines, which are developed in close cooperation with practitioners.

In an internationally leading role, the SLF has helped compile a superior knowledge base regarding snow and avalanches in the high mountains, and has worked out practical approaches to issues of avalanche protection. Through its long-standing, purposeful engagement in the field of public avalanche warning and protection, the Institute has created internationally influential high safety standards for the densely settled Alpine region with its high concentration of winter sports activities.

Engagement with the phenomenon of avalanches, which has been substantially shaped by the SLF even on the international level, has led to new forms of collective risk management. In 2018, UNESCO recognised avalanche risk management as a part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.»

Albert Mountain Award 2020