FIS publishes 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.

The Sustainability Guide for Ski Resorts presents 14 key initiatives that lay the groundwork for building environmentally resilient ski destinations. In the guide, successful examples of sustainable adaptation by ski resorts are highlighted for inspiration and to show what can be achieved.

The initiatives in this guide focus on critical ski resort operations. To ensure each initiative is clear and easy to put into action, detailed explanations are provided, along with simple action summaries. The result is a straightforward roadmap for sustainable development.

Over the last few months, we have been working on the development of some guides – to be published in the coming months – in different areas that can help NSAs, LOCs, and local communities to be more aware and informed about the sustainability of their actions. Our role is also to provide the whole FIS family with tools that can guide them in trying to reduce their environmental impact in their daily organizational decisions.

Susanna Sieff, FIS Sustainability Director

To provide a snapshot of this guide, the 14 sustainable ski initiatives are summarized below:

• Initiative #1: Reduce the Energy Consumption and Carbon Footprint of Ski Lifts
  • Steps include installing solar panels on ski lifts, reducing lift speeds during off-peak times, and powering lifts with renewable energy.

• Initiative #2: Attain 100% Green Electricity Using a Renewable Energy Mix
  • Steps include adopting 100% green electricity, purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), and/or switching to renewable energy providers.

• Initiative #3: Set a Net Zero Goal for 2050
  • Steps include measuring and tracking emissions, then creating an action plan to reduce emissions. For example, unavoidable emissions should be offset, while other emissions can be reduced by improving efficiency.

• Initiative #4: Adopt an Effective Piste Management Plan
  • Steps include implementing a sustainable piste management plan. This plan should include practices like mapping and preserving biodiversity, offering ungroomed runs, and transitioning to clean-energy snow groomers.

• Initiative #5: Conserve Natural Habitats
  • Steps include conserving natural habitats and dedicating and enhancing areas for wildlife protection.

• Initiative #6: Encourage Sustainable Travel
  • Steps include educating skiers on the environmental impact of travel, encouraging the use of public transport, supporting carpooling, offering shuttle services, and providing electric or hybrid vehicle options at the resort.

• Initiative #7: Introduce Snow Farming Practices
  • Snow farming is a technique for preserving snow from the previous season by collecting and storing it in insulated facilities. This reduces technical snow-making demand and allows for an earlier ski season. Steps include assessing terrain suitability, investing in storage technology, using effective insulation materials, and conducting environmental impact assessments.

• Initiative #8: Implement Snow Pump Technology With Lower Emissions and Water Usage
  • Steps include weather forecasting and advanced snow farming techniques to optimize snow production, thereby lowering CO2 emissions and water use.

• Initiative #9: Set Waste Zero Targets
  • Steps include repurposing and recycling materials, starting with a waste audit to pinpoint areas for improvement.

• Initiative #10: Collaborate With Key Stakeholders
  • Any sustainability development plan must involve local communities, landowners, farmers, and skiers. Steps focus on engaging these stakeholders.

• Initiative #11: Design More Sustainable Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars
  • Steps focus on food waste reduction, water conservation, and lowering carbon emissions.

• Initiative #12: Design More Sustainable Accommodation (Hotels, Chalets, and Alpine Huts)
  • Steps include adopting sustainable architecture, energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management.

• Initiative #13: Sustainable Events
  • Steps include conducting carbon footprint assessments, using renewable energy sources, adopting more sustainable snow production and management systems, and minimizing waste.

• Initiative #14: Create a Sustainability Program
  • Ski resorts require a thorough sustainability program that encompasses all aspects of their operations. This program should act as a transparent, practical blueprint, outlining the measures and activities that support sustainability. The initiatives outlined in this guide are suitable to be used to develop such a 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.