Climate change: Ski sport chiefs launch new sustainability guide for resorts
Ski resorts are being urged to install solar panels on ski lifts and “grow” snow to help combat the challenges posed by climate change.
These are among the recommendations in new guidance from the sport’s governing body, which says climate change poses an “existential threat” to skiing and snowboarding.
Last year, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) warned Only 10 countries will be able to host snow sports by 2040 Because of the effects of climate change.
Now, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has launched a Ski Resort Sustainability Guide, external Helping these regions become more resilient as global temperatures rise Snowfall is low., external
The guide contains 14 initiatives, tells resorts how to implement them, and provides examples of how some are implemented.
“Our role is also to provide the entire FIS family with tools to guide their efforts to reduce their impact on the environment,” said Susanna Sieff, Director of Sustainability at FIS.
These include installing solar panels on ski lifts to reduce energy consumption, using more green energy, and encouraging skiers to use more sustainable transportation by providing shuttles or setting up carpools.
Resorts are also encouraged to improve snow plowing – collecting snow and storing it in special facilities so it can be used again the following year.
This would also reduce the need for artificial snow, which consumes large amounts of energy and water.
“By taking these 14 key steps, ski resorts can pave the way for a more sustainable snow sports industry,” FIS said.
Earlier this year, FIS formed a partnership with the United Nations World Meteorological Organization (WMO) “to highlight the profound impact of rising global temperatures on snow and ice cover and develop practical initiatives.”
