Ski areas across the country adopted an Environmental Charter in 2000 to address the environmental concerns of our industry. The Charter, commonly referred to as "Sustainable Slopes," identifies climate change as a potential threat to the environment and our business. Although we are not a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, many resorts across the country already are taking steps to reduce their own, limited GHG emissions.
To collectively address the long-term challenges presented by climate change and continue our commitment to stewardship under the Sustainable Slopes program, we hereby adopt this climate change policy. Through this policy, we aim to raise awareness of the potential impacts of climate change on our weather-dependent business and the winter recreation experience; reduce our own greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage others to take action as well. We are committed to working toward solutions that will keep both the environment and economy healthy and preserve quality of life. To this end, we will take the following actions:
Educate the public and resort guests about the dependence of winter sports on natural ecosystems and the potential impacts of climate change on the winter recreation experience; educate guests on how they can help reduce GHG emissions.
Raise policymaker awareness of the dependence of winter sports on natural ecosystems and the potential impacts of climate change on the winter recreation experience.
Advocate for the national reduction of GHG emissions through legislative, regulatory or voluntary measures.
Support sound, science-based solutions to climate change, including the use of renewable energy technologies.
Partner with appropriate organizations and agencies to assess opportunities to reduce resort emissions and increase energy efficiency; invest in new, more efficient products, practices, and technologies; and measure our emission reductions.