For mountain resorts, ecotourism presents both a challenge and an opportunity. It’s about addressing climate change while preserving nature, biodiversity, and protected areas. The growth of summer tourism and non-ski activities helps maintain resort appeal and meets visitor expectations.

Mountain Professionals Commit to the Environment

Ski resorts, tourist offices, ropeway operators, ski areas, equipment manufacturers—are all at the forefront of imagining, developing, and implementing sustainable solutions to protect the mountain environment. At the 2024 Mountain Planet trade show in Grenoble, in the French Alps, change-makers gathered to showcase their innovations. Numerous initiatives have already proven effective both in France and internationally.

See the 2024 Trade Show Retrospective

Mountain Planet: A Hub for Discussion What are the new challenges? What sustainable transition models are emerging for the mountains? As climate change directly impacts snow cover and the length of seasons, ski resorts in the Alps have had to rethink their economic models. By diversifying their activities, they are adapting to new challenges, including the sustainable management of natural resources, particularly water and electricity.

To improve winter sports conditions, many innovations have been introduced to optimize snow production and reduce energy consumption in the mountains. Equipment suppliers play a crucial role in developing more environmentally friendly solutions.

Examples of Sustainable Innovations in the Alps

Technological innovations in smart and sustainable ski area management include investments in cutting-edge technologies by ropeway operators to optimize operations, thus helping preserve resources like water. Snow management systems now rely on real-time data, and ropeway speeds are adjusted to reduce energy consumption. Snow groomers are either electric or powered by non-fossil fuels derived from recycled cooking oils (HVO).

WATCH THE CONFERENCE ON ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION OF MOUNTAIN AREAS

Protecting Species and Biodiversity at the Heart of the Issues

©Baptiste Buisson

Nature and its wildlife are precious assets. To protect mountain areas, their wildlife, and biodiversity, municipalities are investing in revegetating ski slopes. The creation of protected zones and the development of wildlife and plant monitoring programs are carried out in partnership with natural parks in the French Alps.
Additionally, mountain communities and tourist offices are implementing visitor awareness programs. The goal is to educate tourists about climate change and encourage more responsible behaviors. Fun and educational programs teach them to recognize protected areas and species. Marked hiking trails are created, and regular waste collection days are organized, all aimed at raising awareness about the fragility of mountain ecosystems.

Learn More About Water and Waste Management in the Mountains

Strategies for Sustainable Mountain Tourism

• Certifications and labels highlight the efforts of mountain professionals. Beyond recognition, these numerous indicators form the basis of an eco-responsible and sustainable strategy. Labels like “Station Verte,” “Flocon Vert,” “Green Globe,” “B-Corp,” and “Clef Verte” each highlight the efforts of resorts to an increasingly environmentally conscious clientele.
  Learn More About Eco-Responsible Labels
• Four-season diversification of activities also helps better adapt to climate change. There are many alternatives to skiing, and innovations now enable the development of these new activities.
• Sustainable mobility is another crucial factor in reducing the carbon footprint. Therefore, Alpine resorts are investing in valley lifts, clean public transport, and installing charging stations for electric vehicles.

Today, the entire mountain sector is committed to developing a more sustainable economic model, knowing full well that ecotourism represents the future of mountain tourism. This commitment aims to protect the environment and its biodiversity while providing sustainable experiences for visitors.