How the Skiing Industry Uses Climate Tech to be Sustainable
The ski vacation market is on a significant upward trajectory, projected to triple from US$5bn to US$15bn by 2032.
As more enthusiasts hit the slopes, the environmental impact of this booming industry becomes increasingly significant.
Skiers account for an average additional 48.9kg of CO₂ emissions per trip.
With such figures, the pressing question remains: how can the skiing industry evolve sustainably?
Ski resort emissions
It's evident that increasing global temperatures pose a significant threat to snow-dependent activities.
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency has recorded an alarming 86% reduction in April snowpacks in specific areas between 1955 and 2022.
A study in Nature Climate Change reveals that in Europe, 53% of ski resorts will be at very high risk for snow supply cover if temperatures rise by 2°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
The FIS report highlights the proactive measures ski resorts are taking to promote sustainability.
It states: “As skiing continues to surge in popularity, drawing enthusiasts to the slopes, ski resorts have become crucial advocates for a more sustainable and responsible approach to winter sports.
“With an appreciation for and respect for nature, skiers and ski resorts often champion sustainable progression through innovative practices and adaptive measures, seeking to preserve the natural world and mitigate climate change.”
Cutting emissions
The FIS' first Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts is a pivotal guide that outlines an ambitious 14-point strategy aimed at minimising the environmental footprint of ski resorts globally.
It highlights the crucial role resorts play in fostering sustainability within their operations, especially given the increasing popularity of skiing.
The guide suggests that ski resorts are not just sport facilities but are stewards of the environment.
It not only puts them at the forefront of eco-friendly innovation but also positions them as leaders in the global sustainability movement.
A noteworthy excerpt from the guide reads, "Ski resorts operate in natural environments and this gives them a unique opportunity to lead sustainable progress.
"FIS is dedicated to leading the way in this transformative journey, having developed the Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts to provide support to resorts around the globe."
FIS' stance on looming climate risks
Across continents, the environmental implications of skiing are alarmingly visible, demonstrating a clear threat to the industry's future.
These stark realities make it imperative for all stakeholders involved to reevaluate their environmental strategies.
The FIS report champions such change, encouraging ski resorts around the world to adopt more sustainable practices, respecting and preserving nature.
The Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts contains 14 initiatives it says can lay the groundwork for building environmentally resilient ski destinations.
They are:
- Reduce the energy consumption and carbon footprint of ski lifts
- Achieve 100% green electricity use with a renewable energy mix
- Set a net zero goal for 2050
- Adopt an effective piste management plan including mapping and preserving biodiversity, offering ungroomed runs and transitioning to clean-energy snow groomers
- Conserve natural habitats
- Encourage sustainable travel by skiers and riders travelling to resorts
- Introduce snow farming practices, a technique for preserving snow from the previous season by collecting and storing it in insulated facilities
- Implement snow pump technology with lower emissions and water usage
- Set waste zero targets
- Collaborate with key stakeholders including local communities, landowners, farmers and skiers
- Design more sustainable restaurants, cafes and bars
- Design more sustainable accommodation
- Organise sustainable events
- Create a sustainability programme.
The FIS says: “By adopting these 14 key initiatives, ski resorts can pave the way toward a more sustainable snow sports industry, reducing their environmental impact while enhancing the overall experience for guests.”
Pathways to greener slopes
The FIS' 14-point plan is comprehensive.
At its core, it aims to reduce the direct environmental impacts of skiing operations.
With these 14 points, the FIS not only sets a benchmark but also provides a practical framework that ski resorts can follow to align with global sustainability goals.
By embracing these guidelines, resorts can indeed carve a path towards reducing their carbon footprint, securing the future of ski vacations with minimal ecological impact.
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