A recent study revealed that U.S. ski areas suffered a significant economic loss of $5 billion between 2000 and 2019 as a direct result of human-caused climate change. The study also projected potential annual losses of around $1 billion in the 2050s, depending on the extent of emissions reduction efforts.
The impact of warm weather on winter recreation has been evident across North America and Europe, with events like the cancellation of a 250-mile dog sled race in Maine and the early opening of golf courses in Minnesota. The study highlighted the urgent nature of the issue, emphasizing that climate change is a current problem rather than a future concern.
Researchers analyzed data from major U.S. ski markets and compared ski seasons from 2000 to 2019 with those from 1960 to 1979, noting a reduction in the average ski season length by 5.5 to 7.1 days despite snowmaking efforts to compensate for decreased natural snowfall.
Under different emissions scenarios, the study projected further reductions in ski season length in the 2050s, with an optimistic scenario shortening seasons by 14 to 33 days and a high-emissions scenario nearly doubling the days lost.
The study emphasized the need for immediate action to reduce emissions and transition away from fossil fuels to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the ski industry. Researchers calculated economic losses based on increased snowmaking costs and lost skier revenue, highlighting the need for comprehensive data to assess the full extent of the industry's financial losses.
While snowmaking has been used to offset climate-related challenges, the study suggested that its effectiveness may be limited as the planet continues to warm. Experts raised concerns about the declining quality of snow and potential changes in skier behavior as a response to poor snow conditions.
The study underscored the importance of understanding how skiers and snowboarders might adapt to changing snow conditions and whether they would seek alternative recreational activities. Researchers expressed a desire to explore skier behavior further to enhance modeling and inform future industry strategies.
The study serves as a call to action for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public to address climate change and safeguard the future of the ski industry.
