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Winter sports are facing many challenges. Can they survive?
- Global skier numbers in wealthy nations have declined over the last decade as the sport loses appeal among younger generations who prefer cheaper, warmer destinations.
- Snow cover duration is shortening due to later starts and earlier ends, while snowfall has decreased and snowpack depth has thinned since the 1950s.
- Future snow availability is expected to diminish, with the exact rate remaining uncertain, threatening low-elevation resorts that rely on natural snow.
- By the end of the century, insufficient natural snow and temperatures exceeding artificial production capabilities may force many resorts to close.
- Potential temperature increases of 2 degrees could eliminate skiing at approximately 15% of resorts, while a 4-degree rise may force 60% to close.
- Recent Olympic events in Pyeongchang and upcoming games in China in 2022 are considered critical for revitalizing participation.
- Chinese ski resorts are experiencing growth of about 20% annually, with nearly 500 new facilities estimated for construction ahead of the 2022 Games.
- Some established resorts, such as St. Moritz, are projected to remain viable for decades, though higher-altitude locations like the Kulm Hotel will increasingly depend on costly, energy-intensive snow cannons.
- The rising cost of artificial snow production is expected to be passed to consumers, potentially making the sport more exclusive and expensive.
- The energy consumption of snow cannons contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which may exacerbate the global warming driving snow melt.