With concerns spreading over climate change, a snowy winter future for skiing and snowboarding, the sport has been called into question. Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns made many believe that ski resorts may have a snowless future. Experts and resort operators, however, have positive views on this matter; they point out adaptable measures and geographical advantages that can continue to keep ski mountains in the snow for years ahead.
Climate change undeniably affects snowfall patterns. Lower-elevation ski resorts and regions already experiencing mild winters face challenges as temperatures rise. Snow seasons have shortened in some areas, and snowfall consistency has decreased. These changes have prompted resorts and winter sports enthusiasts to rethink how the industry can adapt to a warming climate.
One of the reasons ski resorts feel hopeful about their future is the increasing reliance on snowmaking technology. Modern snow machines can produce artificial snow in less-than-ideal conditions, provided that the temperatures go below freezing at night.
Snowmaking is the lifeblood, said a spokesperson at Park City Mountain Resort in Utah. Like every ski resort, they invested so much in snowmaking equipment to ensure that all the slopes remain skiable, even during dry periods. While snowmaking does utilize a lot of resources, technology has advanced over time to make it efficient and environmentally friendly.
Geography plays a significant role in the sustainability of ski resorts. Higher-elevation resorts, such as those in the Rocky Mountains or the Alps, are less affected by rising temperatures than their lower-elevation counterparts. Resorts in colder regions can maintain natural snowpack longer and rely less on artificial snow.
Additionally, resorts have recently started to strategically manage their terrain and focus on areas that are most likely to retain snow throughout the season. Shifting operations to higher altitudes or north-facing slopes that naturally preserve snow is becoming a very common strategy.
Many ski resorts also take steps to mitigate the broader effects of climate change. From renewable sources of energy to reduce carbon footprints to planting trees to stabilize snowpacks, resorts are showing environmental stewardship.
To maintain sustainability, Solitude Mountain Resort has ensured the installation of an environmental snow-making system and energy-efficient lift operations. The approach takes the concerns of climate right at its core so as to make sure winter sport sustainability will last for the generation that follows.
While the challenges of climate change are significant, the proactive stance of the ski industry suggests a resolute future. By applying technological innovation, sustainable practice, and strategic use of natural resources, resorts have adapted to ensure snow remains on the slopes.
The future of skiing and snowboarding is not as foreboding as it would seem to be. Though climate change poses undeniable challenges, strategies adopted by the industry—such as snowmaking and sustainable practices—will ensure ski mountains continue to have some snow for many decades more. Winter sports enthusiasts may look forward to continuing to have fun on the slopes even when the climate is changing.
