Following an initial promise of early snowfall in certain European regions this autumn, the familiar pattern of recent years returned, with rain and sleet taking precedence.
In the French Alps ski resorts of Morzine and Les Gets persistent heavy rainfall led to a delayed full opening of resorts, occurring just two days before Christmas.
This situation left both the industry and the millions of tourists planning trips anxiously gazing at the sky in anticipation.
However, the threat facing skiing in the Alps is more than just a temporary weather challenge; it is an existential one. This industry, valued at $30 billion (£23.8 billion), represents the most popular ski destination globally.
Scientific evidence, outlined in meticulously reviewed reports, paints a clear picture.
The latest findings this year warn that with a global heating increase of 2°C above pre-industrial levels, 53% of the 28 European resorts examined would face a very high risk of insufficient snowfall.
The scientific evidence, carefully reviewed in reports this year, clearly indicates that if global temperatures rise by 2°C above pre-industrial levels, 53% of the 28 European resorts studied would be highly susceptible to having insufficient snow.
The primary sources of emissions in skiing are related to tourist flights to resorts, car travel within resorts, and the energy consumption in accommodations.
Montagne Verte is actively advocating for the adoption of car-free resorts and is engaging with politicians and businesses to promote this transition.
