What's Happening?
Laax, a major Swiss ski resort, is implementing ambitious sustainability projects to address the challenges posed by climate change. The resort has launched initiatives such as on-demand gondolas and CO2-neutral lifts to mitigate the impact of warming
winters. According to researchers from MeteoSwiss and ETH Zurich, Switzerland is warming at twice the global average rate, leading to hotter, drier conditions and reduced snowfall. Laax, part of the Flims Laax Falera ski area, is committed to being fully carbon neutral, with measures in place to manage energy use, waste, and biodiversity. The resort's efforts are part of a broader collaboration with other ski destinations to share best practices and address the climate crisis.
Why It's Important?
The initiatives at Laax highlight the urgent need for ski resorts to adapt to changing climate conditions. As winter sports face reduced snowfall and shorter seasons, resorts must innovate to remain viable. Laax's commitment to sustainability sets a precedent for other resorts, potentially influencing industry standards and encouraging widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices. The resort's actions also underscore the broader impact of climate change on tourism and local economies, as regions dependent on winter sports must navigate the challenges of a warming climate.
