Thematic Event: Can Winter Sports Events Be Sustainable?

As winter approaches, excitement builds towards another winter sports season – but for how much longer? As weather and snowfall become more unpredictable, this cornerstone of Swiss winters will face more challenges moving forward.

Outdoor winter sports events are impacted by climate change, but at the same time offering a powerful platform to influence wider sustainable practices and behaviours. On 28 November, we brought together key stakeholders in outdoor winter sports to address questions including:

• What is driving the environmental footprint of outdoor winter sports events? How does this footprint compare to that of other sports and entertainment products?
• What can stakeholders do to advance environmental sustainability of outdoor winter sports events? How can a constructive dialog be initiated and maintained?
• What is the role of corporate sponsorship in ensuring a positive impact?
• How sustainable are winter sports events/locations in the face of climate change – and how can they become more environmentally friendly?
• What can be the sustainable legacy of sporting events?

This was an engaging discussion that explored the powerful intersection of sports and environmental responsibility.