World Skiing’s Governing Body and U.N. Weather Agency Join Forces to Tackle Winter’s ‘Existential Threat’
As the winter season approaches, the world of skiing is facing a new and daunting challenge. Climate change has been wreaking havoc on winter sports, with shorter seasons, unpredictable weather patterns, and melting snow. In response to this pressing issue, the International Ski Federation (FIS) has teamed up with the United Nations’ weather agency, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), to find solutions and mitigate the impact of climate change on winter sports.
The partnership between FIS and WMO was announced at the recent FIS Congress in Costa Navarino, Greece. The two organizations have pledged to work together to address the “existential threat” facing the ski industry. This collaboration marks a significant step towards creating a sustainable future for skiing and other winter sports.
FIS President Gian Franco Kasper highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are facing a crisis that is not just an issue for our sport, but for the entire planet. We must act now to preserve the future of skiing and protect the environment for future generations.” The FIS has been actively promoting sustainability in skiing for several years, and this partnership with WMO is a testament to their commitment to finding solutions.
The WMO, the United Nations’ specialized agency for weather, climate, and water, has a wealth of meteorological expertise that can be utilized to manage the impact of climate change on winter sports. The organization has been at the forefront of climate action, providing vital information and data to help countries and industries adapt to the changing climate. By joining forces with FIS, the WMO can now apply its knowledge and resources to tackle the specific challenges faced by the ski industry.
One of the key objectives of this partnership is to improve the understanding of weather patterns and their impact on ski resorts. By analyzing data and trends, the organizations hope to develop strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on snow conditions and ski seasons. This information will also be shared with ski resorts and other stakeholders to help them make informed decisions and plan for the future.
The partnership will also focus on promoting sustainable practices in skiing and reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. This includes encouraging the use of renewable energy, implementing eco-friendly practices in ski resorts, and promoting responsible tourism. By working together, FIS and WMO aim to create a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly ski industry.
The collaboration between FIS and WMO has been met with enthusiasm and support from the skiing community. Olympic gold medalist and FIS Athletes’ Commission Chair, Kjetil Jansrud, stated, “As athletes, we are passionate about skiing, and we want to ensure that future generations can experience the same joy and thrill of skiing as we do. This partnership gives us hope that we can protect our sport and the environment for the long term.”
The partnership between FIS and WMO is a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by climate change on winter sports. It sends a strong message that the ski industry is taking action and is committed to finding sustainable solutions. This collaboration also highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling global issues like climate change.
As we prepare for the upcoming winter season, we can be reassured that the ski industry is taking steps to secure its future. With the expertise of the WMO and the determination of FIS, we can hope for a more sustainable and resilient ski industry. Let us all join hands and support this partnership in their efforts to preserve the winter wonderland of skiing for generations to come.