Beyond access: a local look at the digital divide in the Italian alps

Mountainous regions often face unique challenges in the digital age.This study investigates the digital divide in the Italian Alps, specifically focusing on communities within Piedmont and Aosta Valley. We argue that internet access alone is an insufficient metric for understanding digital inclusion. This research proposes a novel approach to assess digital adoption and skills at the municipal level, utilizing the number of Airbnb listings as a proxy. This combines aspects of access (internet required for using the platform) and digital skills (managing the listing on the platform). Our findings reveal a significant digital divide within these Alpine municipalities. Socio-economic factors such as population growth, business presence, and higher GDP correlate with increased digital adoption.Conversely,geographical remoteness (measured by altitude) and a older population act as barriers. This highlights the need for context-specific solutions when addressing the digital divide. By going beyond mere internet access, this research sheds light on the complex landscape of digitalization in rural areas. Our findings contribute valuable insights for policymakers seeking to bridge the digital divide and empower mountain communities in Italy and beyond.