The assessment of potential geotechnical hazards associated with mountain permafrost in a warming global climate

European mountain permafrost is generally only a few degrees below zero Celsius, and may therefore be highly sensitive to climate change. Permafrost degradation may lead to thaw settlement and reduction in the stability of mountain slopes. Engineering projects within the high mountain zone require careful investigations of potential permafrost-related hazards. This paper summarizes a staged approach to such investigations. Phase 1 involves walkover site survey supported by a desk study to define potential permafrost hazard zones. Data from permafrost distribution maps, topographic and geological maps are integrated, preferably using GIS methodology. If permafrost is possible and is judged to pose a significant threat to the development, phase 2 investigations are recommended whereby field thermal measurements, drilling of exploratory boreholes, and geophysical surveys are undertaken to clarify permafrost characteristics. The resulting data set should form an important component in subsequent engineering design. On a larger scale, a similar approach should be adopted as part of land-use planning within the mountain permafrost zone. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.