FIS Publishes Its First Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts
More than three decades after ski resorts began taking initiatives to cut their carbon emissions, the International Ski & Snowboard Federation (FIS) has published its first Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts.
More than three decades after ski resorts began taking initiatives to cut their carbon emissions and more than 20 years since concerned skier groups like the French Mountain Riders Association, Scottish SaveOurSnow and initially Amerian but now worldwide Protect Our Winters (POW), among many others, were established, the International Ski & Snowboard Federation (FIS) has published its first Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts.
“Ski resorts operate in natural environments and this gives them a unique opportunity to lead sustainable progress. Around the world, resorts are meeting this challenge by using cutting-edge technologies, collaborating with experts from various fields, and taking a well-rounded approach to sustainability. 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,” a statement from the FIS explains.
The Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts contains 14 key initiatives that lay the groundwork for building environmentally resilient ski destinations, many of them already being undertaken where possible by most resorts, again, in some cases for many decades already. In the guide, successful examples of sustainable adaptation by ski resorts are highlighted to show what can be achieved.
In 2019 the then FIS President drew condemnation from Protect Our Winters among others for appearing to question that climate change was happening.
More recently, 2023 saw the organisation urged by Greenpeace to do much more.
The FIS 14 point plan is:
1: Reduce the Energy Consumption and Carbon Footprint of Ski Lifts
2: Attain 100% Green Electricity Using a Renewable Energy Mix
3: Set a Net Zero Goal for 2050
4: Adopt an Effective Piste Management Plan including mapping and preserving biodiversity, offering ungroomed runs, and transitioning to clean-energy snow groomers.
5: Conserve Natural Habitats
6: Encourage Sustainable Travel by skiers and riders travelling to resort.
7: Introduce Snow Farming Practices, a technique for preserving snow from the previous season by collecting and storing it in insulated facilities.
8: Implement Snow Pump Technology With Lower Emissions and Water Usage
9: Set Waste Zero Targets
10: Collaborate With Key Stakeholders including local communities, landowners, farmers, and skiers. Steps focus on engaging these stakeholders.
11: Design More Sustainable Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars
12: Design More Sustainable Accommodation (Hotels, Chalets, and Alpine Huts)
13: Organise Sustainable Events
14: Create a Sustainability Program
“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. FIS is committed to supporting resorts in that journey, ensuring they remain resilient and environmentally conscious for years to come,” an FIS statement says.
