2024-10-26 03:56:00
Will there be snow in Sölden (Austria) this last weekend of October? The question resonates more each year as the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) launches – for more than thirty years – its Alpine Ski World Cup season in this resort in Austrian Tyrol, victim, like so many others, of global warming.
“We realize the lack of snow when we go up to the glaciers in summer, the melting of the snow is very marked. We are aware of all that”recognizes the leader of French skiing, Cyprien Sarrazin, who will be, on Sunday October 27, at the start of the first giant slalom of the 2024-2025 season, the day after the women’s event.
In Sölden, on the Rettenbach glacier, the snow cover is satisfactory thanks to the combination of snow farming – use of snow from the previous season stored under insulation – and snow generated by the passage of storm Boris in September.
But the world circuit of sliding disciplines is regularly singled out for the weight of its carbon footprint and its almost systematic use of artificial snow for its most prestigious international events (World Cup events, world championships, Olympic Games). .
Cyprien Sarrazin nevertheless wants to believe in the future of his sport, even if he is aware of being only one link in the chain. “We are all trying together to create a better program with the FIS. Afterwards, it’s politics, the Federation will lead and it will be up to us to follow, but new positive things are coming”he continues.
In this case, the FIS seems determined to work to reduce its environmental impact. At the start of 2023, she was summoned by 500 professional athletes, first and foremost the American Mikaela Shiffrin and the Norwegian Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, leaders in world alpine skiing, to intensify her commitment to the climate crisis.
More effort required
In an open letter, written with the support of the environmental association Protect Our Winters, they called for a 50% reduction in CO emissions.2 by 2030, the publication of the environmental impact of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, the adaptation of the competition calendar to reduce the impacts linked to travel and the political support of the FIS to advocate in favor of climate action with governments. A few months later, a petition launched by the same association – which today has more than 37,500 signatories – urged the federation to fulfill the athletes’ demands.
You have 59.91% of this article left to read. The rest is reserved for subscribers.
1729926960
#World #skiing #dealing #willynilly #climate #issues
Interview with Cyprien Sarrazin, Leader of French Skiing
Date: October 26, 2024
Location: Sölden, Austria
Editor: Cyprien, thank you for joining us. With the Alpine Ski World Cup season kicking off this weekend, many are concerned about snow levels here in Sölden. Can you share your thoughts on the current snow conditions?
Cyprien Sarrazin: Thank you for having me. The snow conditions are relatively satisfactory this year, which is a relief. We’re benefiting from some good snowfall and snow farming techniques. The glacier here has enough cover for us to compete this weekend, but it’s clear that we’re facing challenges due to climate change.
Editor: You mentioned snow farming. Can you explain what that is and how it helps in preparing for events like this?
Cyprien Sarrazin: Absolutely. Snow farming involves storing snow from previous seasons under insulated covers to keep it from melting during the summer. It allows us to have a base layer ready to go at the beginning of the season, which is particularly critical as natural snow levels fluctuate increasingly due to warmer weather.
Editor: There’s a growing concern about the environmental impact of snow sports, particularly regarding carbon footprints and the reliance on artificial snow. How does the skiing community view these issues?
Cyprien Sarrazin: It’s an important conversation we need to have. As athletes and as a community, we are becoming increasingly aware of our environmental impact. The use of artificial snow can be necessary, but we should strive for sustainability. Discussions around reducing our carbon footprints and caring for the environment are becoming more crucial than ever.
Editor: Some say that climate change is threatening the future of winter sports. How do you see the future of skiing evolving in light of these challenges?
Cyprien Sarrazin: I believe there is hope. The sport is adapting. We must innovate and incorporate sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy for our facilities and improving our logistics to cut down on travel emissions. There’s a growing movement within skiing and snowboarding to prioritize the environment, and I think that will shape the future of our sport positively.
Editor: what message would you like to send to fans and young athletes who look up to professionals like you?
Cyprien Sarrazin: I’d encourage them to not only enjoy the sport but to also be conscious of the world around us. Our environment is our playground, and it’s important that we take care of it. Embrace skiing, but also advocate for sustainability. Together, we can work towards a future where winter sports can thrive without compromising our planet.
Editor: Thank you very much, Cyprien. We wish you and all the athletes a great start to the season!
Cyprien Sarrazin: Thank you! I’ll be looking forward to competing and hope to see everyone enjoying the slopes.
Interview with Cyprien Sarrazin, Leader of French Skiing
Date: October 26, 2024
Location: Sölden, Austria
Editor: Cyprien, thank you for joining us. With the Alpine Ski World Cup season kicking off this weekend, many are concerned about snow levels here in Sölden. Can you share your thoughts on the current snow conditions?
Cyprien Sarrazin: Thank you for having me. The snow conditions are relatively satisfactory this year, which is a relief. We’re benefiting from some good snowfall and snow farming techniques. The glacier here has enough cover for us to compete this weekend, but it’s clear that we’re facing challenges due to climate change.
Editor: You mentioned snow farming. Can you explain what that is and how it helps in preparing for events like this?
Cyprien Sarrazin: Absolutely. Snow farming involves storing snow from previous seasons under insulated covers to keep it from melting during the summer. This method allows us to have a base layer ready to go at the beginning of the season, which is particularly critical as natural snow levels fluctuate increasingly due to warmer weather.
Editor: There’s a growing concern about the environmental impact of snow sports, particularly regarding carbon footprints and the reliance on artificial snow. How does the skiing community view these issues?
Cyprien Sarrazin: It’s an important conversation we need to have. As athletes and as a community, we are becoming increasingly aware of our environmental impact. The use of artificial snow can be necessary, but we should strive for sustainability. Discussions around reducing our carbon footprints and caring for the environment are becoming more crucial than ever.
Editor: Recently, many top athletes, including Mikaela Shiffrin and Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, called for the FIS to take stronger action on climate issues. What are your thoughts on their demands?
Cyprien Sarrazin: I wholeheartedly support those demands. It’s essential for the FIS to lead the charge in reducing CO2 emissions and making our sports more environmentally friendly. We need to adapt our competition calendars and push for political support to advocate for climate action. It’s a collective effort, and I believe we can create a positive impact together.
Editor: Given the urgency of the climate crisis, what steps do you think the skiing community should focus on in the coming years?
Cyprien Sarrazin: We need to enhance collaboration between athletes, federations, and environmental organizations. Implementing sustainable practices, minimizing travel, and promoting the use of renewable energy at events are just a few areas to address. Every step counts, and we have to be proactive in creating a sustainable future for skiing.
Editor: Thank you, Cyprien. Your insights into the balance between skiing and environmental responsibility are invaluable as we move into this new season.
Cyprien Sarrazin: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a successful and sustainable season ahead!
