Snow Management

Snow management in ski tourism and ski races presents significant challenges, particularly due to the energy-intensive nature of snowmaking, which can account for over 50% of a resort's total annual energy consumption. Lower-altitude ski resorts require more snow guns and resources for artificial snow production, leading to higher energy and water use. Additionally, artificial snow created with chemicals can damage alpine flora and disrupt ecosystem sustainability.

To address these issues, ski resorts are encouraged to invest in energy-efficient snowmaking equipment and utilize renewable energy sources to power operations. Implementing water conservation measures and using recycled water can further reduce environmental impacts. Innovative solutions, such as snow farming techniques—like the one used at Levi for the Alpine Ski World Cup—can help secure early-season skiing while minimizing energy and resource use. This method involves storing insulated materials to preserve snow throughout the warmer months, showcasing a commitment to climate-friendly practices in snow management.