Ski Industry in USA Unites to Fight Climate Change
15th June 2021
Last modified on June 24th, 2021
The four largest ski corporations in the US have come together in what they say is the first unified effort to combat climate change with shared commitments.
Alterra Mountain Company, Boyne Resorts, POWDR and Vail Resorts have announced a Climate Collaborative Charter.
They have agreed to operate their 71 North American resorts with sustainability at the forefront.
They will also use their collective voice to advocate for effective public policy on climate action “in order to leave a positive legacy for future generations of skiers, snowboarders and outdoor enthusiasts”.
The four companies operates 71 North American resorts including Steamboat, Mammoth Mountain, Deer Valley Resort, Vail Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, Park City Mountain, Big Sky Resort, Snowbird, Mt. Bachelor and Killington.
Steamboat, Colorado – Image © PlanetSKI
The industry bodies’ pledges:
- Reduce energy use wherever possible and aggressively pursue renewable energy sources to be carbon neutral
- Climate action and advocacy for effective public policy to accelerate the shift to a renewable energy economy
- Strong efforts and goals to reduce waste
- Be responsible stewards of the environment – the land, forests, watersheds, and habitats that provide the pristine locations where we live, work and host guests
- Share best practices to accelerate change in their respective companies and communities
- Support the National Ski Areas Association’s Sustainable Slopes platform
- Incorporate sustainability into all aspects of their owned and operated mountain resorts
- Lead by example and educate employees and guests about sustainability
- Place collaboration over competition when it comes to sustainability
- Advocate for climate protection
Deer Valley, Utah – Image © PlanetSKI
David Perry of Alterra Mountain Company says they are very proud to be part of this historic action.
“This is an incredible opportunity for industry leaders to engage in healthy competition while educating, sharing best practices and knowledge, and motivating each other to put our best efforts forth to help support the urgent and core issues of sustainability.”
The four companies are urging all mountain resorts to take similar action.
You can read the full Climate Collaborative Charter here.
