Whether you’re struggling down the green circles or tumbling down the black diamonds (or the China Bowl, in my case…) the love of snow impacts the environment.  Good news is many ski resorts are working hard to combat climate change,  and you can do your part tominimize your carbon footprint on the slopes. Here’s 11 ways to help the environment while skiing & snowboarding:

• Opt for an eco-friendly ski resort. How do you tell?  Choose resorts that are participating in the National Ski Area Association’s Sustainable Slope: Environmental Charter for Ski Areas. Unfortunately,  no PA mountains are on the list. Encourage the Poconos and other PA resorts to go green by writing letters or emails to show resort management such action is important for business.
• Avoid artificial snow when possible, it drains the water supply
• Pack a lunch & snacks for the day. As you’re burning calories, you need a boost – BYO energy supply with nutritious options over the often fried & fattening crap at Ski resorts.
• Try cross-country skiing – No electronic lifts or fake snow needed, and it can be done locally
• Regardless of how far, travel the most fuel-efficient way.  Try taking trains, buses, or carpooling to the mountain.
• Purchase ski-gear from eco-minded companies – Independent companies such as Venture Snowboards have pledged to run on wind power.
• Avoid off-trail skiing – You can harm natural plants or animal habitats

  

• Look stylin’ on the mountain (and pick up some snow bunnies in natural fabrics. )Wear organic base layers from globally-conscious Patagonia or check this list from REI to make enviro-friendly clothing choices
• Finished with your ski equipment and need some new ones?  Try exchanging equipment at a ski swap – Just a hint, they normally take place at the end of snow seasons.  If you can’t find a swap, try donating old equipment to a local organization.
• Old ski equipment too beat up to donate? Organizations like Grownskis will reincarnate your old skis into unique furniture.
• Carbon-offset your journeys with TerraPass or similar organization

Posted by Julie

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher