Skiing is a thrilling and invigorating way to connect with nature, but it also poses significant environmental challenges, particularly in the context of climate change. From the energy-intensive operations of ski resorts to the carbon emissions associated with travel. Skiing can impact the environment in ways we might not always consider. However, with the growing awareness of climate change and its effects on our planet, many skiers, manufacturers and resorts are taking steps to make the sport more sustainable. This blog explores how skiers can make sustainable choices, highlights eco-friendly ski resorts, and offers tips for reducing carbon footprints while traveling.
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Choose Eco-Friendly Ski Resorts
One of the most significant ways to reduce your environmental impact while skiing is to choose resorts that prioritize sustainability. Many ski resorts are now implementing green initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint and preserve the natural landscapes that make skiing possible. The resorts below not only provide excellent skiing experiences but also prioritize environmental sustainability, making them ideal choices for eco-conscious travellers this season.
USA/CANADA
Aspen Snowmass (Colorado, USA): Aspen Snowmass is a leader in sustainability, with a commitment to 100% renewable energy and aggressive targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They’ve also implemented a "Give a Flake" campaign to raise awareness and advocate for climate action.
Vail Resorts, USA: Committed to achieving zero net emissions and zero waste to landfill by 2030, Vail Resorts is a leader in sustainable practices.
Whistler Blackcomb (British Columbia, Canada): As one of the largest ski resorts in the world, Whistler Blackcomb takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. It generates its own hydroelectric energy and has implemented a comprehensive waste reduction program, achieving a 70% reduction in waste since 2009. This is achieved through its environmental Management System, which focuses on energy conservation, waste reduction and protecting biodiversity. Whistler Blackcomb also supports the “Zero Operating Footprint” initiative, aiming to have zero waste, zero carbon and zero net emissions.
Sustainable Slopes Program: Over 200 U.S. ski areas participate in this programme, committing to sustainable practices across operations.
EUROPE
Avoriaz, France: has been car-free since its inception, encouraging visitors to walk or ski around the resort. The resort uses wooden snow barriers to preserve natural snow and employs GPS technology to optimize snowmaking processes, minimizing energy use.
Laax, Switzerland: Laax has set ambitious goals to become the world’s first self-sufficient alpine destination by 2030, operating entirely on hydropower. They’re working on reducing energy consumption, increasing the use of renewable energy and encouraging sustainable transportation options. The resort plans to introduce a wind farm and uses electric shuttles for transportation between its villages. Additionally, Laax promotes the use of plant-based ski waxes to reduce environmental impact.
Pejo, Italy: Located in Trentino, Pejo has banned single-use plastics throughout the resort, eliminating items like plastic cutlery and cups. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainability and reduce waste in the area.
St. Moritz, Switzerland: Utilizes solar panels and wind turbines to power ski lifts, showcasing a commitment to renewable energy.
Serre Chevalier, France: This resort produces its own electricity using wind turbines, hydroelectric power and solar panels.
Silvretta Arena, Austria: This resort has achieved climate neutrality and focuses on sustainable practices in energy use and waste management. It is also known for its extensive ski area and commitment to environmental protection.
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental, Austria: is recognized as one of the most sustainable ski resorts globally. All 90 lifts are powered by solar energy and the resort generates surplus energy, which is sold back to the grid. Additionally, snow cannons utilize water from local reservoirs filled with natural snowmelt.
Val d'Isère, France: Part of the Three Valleys ski area, Val d'Isère has invested in renewable energy for its lifts and introduced electric shuttle buses to reduce emissions. The resort received the Flocon Vert (Green Snowflake) label for its sustainability efforts.
Zermatt and Saas-Fee Switzerland: Both resorts are car-free, with Zermatt using electric buses and Saas-Fee relying on renewable hydroelectricity to power lifts. Famed for its car-free policy, Zermatt promotes walking, electric taxis, and horse-drawn carriages for transportation. The resort is powered by renewable energy sources, including solar and hydroelectric power. Zermatt has also implemented wildlife protection measures, ensuring that local animal populations are safeguarded.
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Opt for Sustainable Gear
The gear you use on the slopes can also have an environmental impact. Fortunately, many outdoor brands are now producing high-performance, sustainable gear that minimises harm to the planet. Consider buying second-hand at www.WhoSki.com or renting equipment to reduce waste. Look for products made from recycled or sustainable materials and consider investing in high-quality items that will last for many seasons. Natural fibres such as Merino Wool are my number one choice when it comes to base and mid-layers. Warm and naturally wicking these can be worn for normal winter wear as well as snow sports. See www.SnowFinel.co.uk and https://birdie.london/ for stylish Merino knitwear and also Smart Wool.
When choosing ski gear, look for products made from recycled or sustainable materials and consider investing in high-quality items that will last for many seasons.
Patagonia: Known for its commitment to sustainability, Patagonia offers ski gear made from recycled materials and is transparent about its supply chain. Their Worn Wear program encourages customers to repair and reuse gear rather than buying new items. Visit Patagonia's Europe website
Picture Organic Clothing: This brand is dedicated to creating eco-friendly ski apparel using organic, recycled and bio-sourced materials. Picture Organic Clothing also offsets its carbon emissions and works to minimize its environmental impact throughout the production process. Visit Picture Organic website
Faction Skis: Faction is a B-Corp certified company that creates durable, high-performance skis with a focus on sustainability. They use renewable energy in their production facilities and are committed to reducing waste and carbon emissions. Visit Faction Skis website
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Reduce Your Carbon Footprint While Traveling
Traveling to ski resorts often requires long drives or flights, which can contribute significantly to your carbon footprint. Here are some tips to minimize your impact:
Carpool or Use Public Transportation: If possible, carpool with friends or family to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Many ski resorts offer shuttle services or are accessible via public transportation, which can further reduce your carbon emissions. The new Travel Ski Express https://www.uk.travelski.com/travelski-express from St Pancras replaced the Snow Train after Covid and provides a one-stop shop for your transportation/accommodation/lift pass/transit to the Alps.
Offset Your Carbon Emissions: Consider purchasing carbon offsets to neutralize the impact of your travel. Organisations like MyClimate and Carbonfund.org offer programs that allow you to calculate and offset the emissions from your flights or car trips.
Choose Closer Destinations: If you live near ski resorts, consider skiing locally instead of traveling long distances. This reduces both travel time and emissions.
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Practise Leave-No-Trace Principles
Skiing in natural environments means being a responsible steward of the land. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact:
Take your rubbish home: Never leave rubbish or gear behind on the slopes. Carry a small bag with you to collect any waste and dispose of it properly. Be mindful of waste on the slopes. Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics. Dispose of waste properly and even pick up litter you find on the slopes to help maintain the natural beauty of the environment.
Respect Wildlife: Skiing through wildlife habitats can be disruptive to animals, especially in winter when resources are scarce. Stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Stay on the Trails: Off-piste skiing can cause soil erosion and damage vegetation. Stick to designated runs and respect any closed areas. A little-considered impact of skiing is the effect of micro-particles from the base of skis/boards shed while skiing/boarding. The shed waxed surface does have an impact over time, so seek out environment-friendly products, such as LINK when servicing your skis/board. You can consider factors like renewability, biodegradability, and production impact. Here are some of the most eco-friendly waxes:
Beeswax
A natural by-product of honey production that's renewable. Beeswax candles burn longer and cleaner than soy wax candles.
Soy wax
Derived from soybean oil, soy wax is renewable and biodegradable. It produces less soot than paraffin wax, which can help keep your home and the environment cleaner. However, some have raised concerns about deforestation and pesticide use in soy farming. When choosing soy wax, you can look for products that use sustainable and pesticide-free farming practices, and that use eco-friendly packaging materials.
Coconut wax
Derived from coconut oil, coconut wax is renewable and biodegradable. Coconut wax candles burn longer and cleaner than soy wax candles.
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Support Green Initiatives
Many ski resorts and brands are leading the way in sustainability by implementing green initiatives. Here are details of some of those making a difference:
Alterra Mountain Company: Owner of resorts like Steamboat and Mammoth Mountain, Alterra has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. They’re investing in renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and advocating for climate action.
Protect Our Winters (POW): This nonprofit organization was founded by professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones to mobilize the outdoor sports community against climate change. POW advocates for policies that protect winter environments and promotes sustainable practices within the industry.
Vail Resorts: Vail Resorts has launched its "EpicPromise" initiative, which includes a commitment to achieve a zero net operating footprint by 2030. This includes zero net emissions, zero waste to landfill, and zero impact to forests and habitat.
Conclusion
By adopting these sustainable practices and supporting eco-friendly resorts and brands, skiers can enjoy their favourite sport while protecting the environment. As climate change continues to impact winter sports, it is crucial that all those involved in the industry, including skiers, continue to evolve. It’s encouraging to see so many brands and resorts taking action to ensure that future generations can enjoy the thrill of skiing in a world that’s just as wild and beautiful as it is today.