THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE FUTURE OF SKI RACING

Climate change is no longer a distant concern but an immediate challenge that is significantly altering winter sports, particularly ski racing. This issue is becoming increasingly visible through changes in snowfall patterns, shorter ski seasons, and a growing reliance on artificial snow. These factors not only impact the sport itself but also on the economic stability of ski tourism.

The Effect of Rising Temperatures on Ski Seasons

In recent years, Europe has experienced unusually warm winters. For example, in January 2023, Switzerland recorded its highest-ever January temperature north of the Alps at 20.2°C in Delemont. This was part of what climatologists described as an extreme weather event. During this time, ski resorts saw spring-like conditions, with snow limited to narrow, artificial strips surrounded by green landscapes. Experts predict that such conditions, including “green Christmases” in the Alps, will become more frequent.

The Growing Reliance on Artificial Snow

Artificial snow has become essential for ski racing, as it creates a surface that meets the requirements of competitions. However, producing artificial snow is expensive. The costs for ski resorts range from $500,000 to over $3.5 million per season. The process depends heavily on energy-intensive equipment, such as water pumps and air compressors, which also require substantial water resources.

While artificial snow has enabled events like the Winter Olympics in Beijing 2022 to proceed, the environmental costs are considerable. For example, creating enough snow for the event required an estimated 185 million litres of water. As temperatures rise, even artificial snowmaking becomes challenging in warmer conditions, making it less reliable.

Economic Challenges for Ski Resorts

Climate change has serious financial implications for ski resorts. Shorter seasons mean reduced income from tourism, while significant investments in snowmaking equipment are necessary to maintain operations. Resorts that are unable to sustain snow coverage may lose opportunities to host major events such as World Cup races, leading to further economic losses. This creates a cycle where resorts struggle to stay profitable while simultaneously facing increasing costs.

Research indicates that by 2040, only ten countries will still have the ability to host snow sports, compared to many more today. Even in optimistic scenarios, the water consumption required for artificial snowmaking could double in some areas. These challenges threaten the future of ski tourism, particularly in regions like Austria and Switzerland, where it plays a vital economic role.

Industry Adaptation and Alternative Approaches

To address these issues, ski resorts and governing bodies are seeking ways to adapt. For instance, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has partnered with the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to address the impacts of climate change on winter sports. This collaboration will focus on using scientific data to improve snow management and raise awareness of the challenges facing ski tourism.

Some resorts are also exploring ways to diversify their offerings. For example, Werfenweng in Austria provides activities such as alpaca hikes, horse-drawn carriage rides, and tobogganing to attract visitors during winters with less snow. Additionally, efforts are being made to develop more sustainable snowmaking technologies, such as methods that require fewer resources and can operate at higher temperatures.

The Future of Ski Racing

The future of ski racing depends on innovation and adaptation. Artificial snow will remain an essential component of the sport, but its production must become more efficient and environmentally sustainable. At the same time, resorts must find ways to adapt their business models to changing conditions by offering alternatives to traditional winter tourism.

The impacts of climate change are unavoidable, but with collaboration between researchers, sports organizations, and policymakers, it is possible to safeguard the future of ski racing and maintain the cultural and economic importance of winter tourism.

By Alexandra Taub