Adam Moe-Lange
The Irony Of Skiing
Skiing is a sport that is inherently intertwined with climate, hinging on consistent temperatures and sufficient snowfall. As such, skiing is at great risk, dealing with ever increasing global temperatures and unpredictable climate as a result of anthropogenic pollution and a slow response to the climate crisis. And yet skiing punches well above its weight in terms of its environmental impact. Not only altering the natural landscape, but consuming vast amounts of energy and water, while also disrupting the wildlife directly and through pollutants, ultimately accelerating the conditions that threaten skiing’s future.
A ski resort relying on snowmaking during the ski season.(Fidler)
Transforming Mountain Landscapes
Cleared trees at Keystone ski area as part of an expansion, CO, 2022 (Blevins)
Skiing, often seen as a harmonious engagement with nature, significantly alters mountain landscapes to accommodate its enthusiasts. Resorts require vast cleared areas for slopes, lifts, and infrastructure, leading to deforestation that disrupts ecosystems and destroys habitats. The construction of ski runs and facilities causes soil erosion and water runoff issues, further degrading the natural environment. These changes lead to a loss of biodiversity, as plants and animals are forced out of their native habitats.
Energy Consumption and Water Usage
Snowmaking at Breckenridge, CO, 2021 (Breckenridge Facebook)
Skiing is an energy-intensive sport. Resorts consume vast amounts of electricity to power lifts, snowmaking machines, and heating systems for lodges and accommodations. Snowmaking, essential in regions with insufficient natural snowfall, is particularly energy-draining and requires immense water quantities. This artificial snow, less dense than natural snow, melts quicker and alters local hydrology. The heavy water use for snowmaking strains local supplies, especially in alpine areas where water is already scarce. Diverting water for ski resorts can harm downstream ecosystems and affect communities relying on these sources for drinking and agriculture, exacerbating issues caused by climate change.
Wildlife Disruption and Pollution
Moose habitat disrupted by skiing infrastructure, Jackson Hole, WY, 2018 (JHMR Facebook)
The presence of ski resorts and the influx of tourists significantly disrupts local wildlife. The construction and operation of ski lifts and runs fragment habitats, complicating animals' search for food and mates. Noise and activity disturb hibernating animals and alter migration patterns. Additionally, introducing non-native plants for slope stabilization threatens local ecosystems' integrity. Resorts also generate substantial waste, from food packaging to broken equipment. Tourist activities increase pollution, with litter often found along slopes and surrounding areas. Sewage and wastewater from resorts, if improperly managed, can contaminate nearby water bodies. Grooming machines and snowmobiles contribute to air and noise pollution, further stressing the environment.
The Climate Change Feedback Loop and Mitigation Efforts
Ski slopes with little snow in Davos, Switzerland, December 2015 (Pearce)
Ironically, skiing both suffers from and contributes to climate change. The sport depends on cold, snowy winters, becoming less predictable due to global warming. The carbon emissions from travel, resort operations, and snowmaking contribute to the greenhouse gasses driving climate change, creating a feedback loop where skiing accelerates the conditions threatening its future. However, the skiing industry is increasingly aware of its environmental footprint and is taking steps to mitigate impacts. Some resorts are investing in renewable energy, improving water management, and implementing sustainable practices. Initiatives like carpooling, shuttle services, and eco-friendly accommodations aim to reduce the carbon footprint of visitors. Advocacy groups are pushing for stronger environmental regulations and promoting awareness among skiers about their impact on mountain ecosystems.
The use of solar energy in Aspen, CO (Lutz)
Works Cited
Blevins, Jason. “Forest Service Halts New Keystone Chairlift after Resort Mistakenly Builds Road in Protected Tundra.” Durango Herald, 29 July 2022, www.durangoherald.com/articles/forest-service-halts-new-keystone-chairlift-after-resort-mistakenly-builds-road-in-protected-tundra/.
Facebook. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Image of moose. Facebook, 21 June 2018, https://www.facebook.com/jacksonhole/photos/a.95822103041/10155726912073042/?type=3. Accessed 18 May 2024.
Facebook. Breckenridge Ski Resort. Image of snowmaking. Facebook, 20 October 2021,https://www.facebook.com/Breckenridge/photos/a.174891293663/10159597152378664/. Accessed 18 May 2024.
Pearce, Rosamund. “Swiss Ski Resorts Could See 70% Drop in Snow Cover as Climate Warms.” Carbon Brief, 16 Feb. 2017, www.carbonbrief.org/swiss-ski-resorts-could-see-70-percent-drop-in-snow-cover-as-climate-warms/.