Sustainable ski holidays (tips and snow boots!)
Although England has a few indoor ski slopes, most people who like ski holidays fly abroad. But once you arrive, here are a few simple swaps to be a more sustainable skiier!
Reduce your impact when flying
Taking the train is often the greener option for European trips. If flying is your only practical choice, there are still ways to reduce your impact:
- Choosing direct flights where possible
- Avoiding business class (a much higher carbon footprint)
- Order a vegan meal (VGML or FPML fruit platter)
- Say no to plastic-wrapped snacks and hot towels
Choose eco-friendly ski resorts
Many ski resorts are now working to reduce carbon emissions. Saas-Fee (Switzerland) is car-free, with electric transport and wooden chalets (visitors receive their passes on arrival in bus or cable car). The area also has around 350km of hiking trails.
Most people arrive via Visp (railway station), followed by a scenic bus. The journey takes around 3 hours from Zurich.
Choose low-waste ski gear
- Will’s Vegan Shoes makes warm snow boots designed for freezing temperatures, with water-resistant materials and vegan wool collars. It recommends ice spikes for extra grip.
- Isle of Wight company Rapanui produces tightly woven organic cotton jumpers that are as warm as wool.
- EcoSki offers pre-owned ski wear and rental options. Launder synthetic fibres in a microfibre filter.
- Choose sustainable ski glasseswith biodegradable frames. Recycled plastic frames still break down into microplastics, if lost near water.
Simple eco-friendly ski holiday tips
Most natural sunscreens contain zinc oxide so (like deodorants and cosmetics), wash off skin, before pets kiss you. Same with cocoa butter skin creams.
- Take a reusable water bottle, to avoid plastic ones on the slopes.
- If you smoke, carry a portable ashtray so cigarette ends can be safely stored until you find a proper bin.
- Choose organic and plant-based foods where available.
