Ski holidays are all about enjoying the powder, hurtling down the slopes like crazy and ending the day with a comforting hot chocolate. But behind this picture-perfect picture lies a slightly less sexy reality: the environmental impact of winter sports . Don't panic. There's no need to swap your skis for snowshoes made from reclaimed wood (unless that's your style – we don't judge anyone here). With a few simple steps , you can enjoy the joys of the mountains while preserving the planet.
Here we go, we’ll give you our little tips for skiing green .
Imagine. You come to admire the immaculate snow, but you see in the distance... cans, tissues and plastic packaging. Not very glamorous, huh? So we avoid that and adopt simple gestures : we slip into our bag , a water bottle and a small box for meals .
At the resort, remember to sort your waste using the collection points . And if you see abandoned packaging, play the mountain superhero by picking it up. Bonus: it strengthens your thighs, perfect for skiing.
Zero waste kit with reusable water bottles and stainless steel boxes.
Some resorts take their role as guardians of the mountains very seriously. Labeled " Flocon Vert " , they are committed to reducing their ecological footprint: ski lifts powered by renewable energy , limited artificial snow , and restaurants favoring short circuits and local products .
As a bonus, these resorts often offer gentler activities such as ski touring or snowshoeing (yes, the wooden ones if you really want to).
To find out which stations are involved, take a look at the full list .
Snowy ski resort.
Driving to the resorts often represents the biggest CO2 emissions of a ski holiday. So why not leave the car in the garage and opt for the train or bus shuttles ? Some resorts even have train stations just a stone's throw from the slopes. To plan your journey, we recommend checking the SNCF website to find the trains that will take you closer to the summits, or on Altibus to book a shuttle that will take you directly to the foot of the slopes.
If the car remains your only option, there is always good old carpooling : it's nicer, more economical and above all, much more eco-friendly.
Bus shuttles to ski resorts.
Your old neon jumpsuit from the 90s may have become trendy again (or not), but if you need to renew your equipment, do it smart. Opt for clothing and accessories that are solid , ultra-high quality , repairable and made with recycled or eco-friendly materials .
At Muule , we go even further by measuring the commitment of outdoor brands using our transparency barometer. The goal? Select the best sustainable (and stylish of course) winter gear that meets your expectations... and those of the planet.
Sustainable ski equipment.
The mountain is not just about ski slopes and breathtaking views. It is also a fragile ecosystem, where fauna and flora fight to survive. To give them a little boost, we stick to the marked trails and avoid protected areas . If you go hiking or cross-country skiing, keep in mind that these spaces belong first and foremost to Mother Nature.
By following these simple rules, you help to preserve biodiversity and ensure that the mountain remains a refuge for everyone... humans and animals alike.
Chamois in the snow.
By combining the pleasure of skiing with eco-responsible actions, you contribute to preserving the magic of the mountains. So enjoy your stay to the fullest, and above all leave the mountain as beautiful as when you arrived. The planet (and the chamois) will thank you 😊.
Article written by Sarah de Muule on January 29, 2025.
