When there is no more snow, what happens to the ski runs?

Skiing is one of my favorite activities now that I'm in high school, but I'm aware that my grandchildren may never get to do it.

In the winter, the bike trails beneath the chairlift would typically be covered in a thick layer of snow. However, a growing number of people are beginning to observe the snow turning brown earlier than ever before as temperatures begin to rise. Skiing could very well become a relic of the past — an age-old sport confined to history books and old photographs.

A 2017 study funded by the United States by climate scientists found that Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Atmospheric Programs, “season length changes” due to warming winters “could result in millions to tens of millions of foregone recreational visits annually by 2050, with an annual monetized impact of hundreds of millions of dollars.”

The length of ski seasons in the United States is anticipated to decrease, according to these same scientists, over 50% in 2050 and over 80% in 2090 for some areas.

The reality is that most resorts in the United States will have closed by the end of the century. Artificial snow may appear to be the answer to this enormous problem, that is incorrect. This fake snow may be able to help resorts stay afloat for the next decade or so, but it is not a viable option in the long run.

Can snow be made?

An article that was published in 2019 by the American Chemical Society states that making snow requires energy, most of which is derived from fossil fuels, which makes the problem even worse by increasing carbon emissions. Not only are these snow machines harmful to the environment, but as temperatures rise, there are fewer opportunities for snowmaking.

Dr. According to Elizabeth Burakowski, a climate scientist at the University of New Hampshire, snowmaking operations can only function effectively when temperatures are below freezing. This indicates that, despite the fact that artificial snow may be beneficial in the short term, it will not be a viable option in the foreseeable future as the conditions necessary to produce that snow begin to diminish.

Moreover, artificial snow is nothing more than a bandage on a much deeper wound. Instead, it is up to us to solve this issue, not the resorts that are frantically searching for solutions.

Professional skier and climate activist Amie Engerbretson believes that ski resorts and skiers are reluctant to discuss the issue. “I think they’re scared,” Engerbretson said. “I think they’re scared of being called a hypocrite.” It's understandable to be afraid. Many in the ski-industry rely on fossil-fuel powered lifts and snowmobiles and travel to enjoy the sport they love.

Let's discuss the snow.

To Burakowski, speaking out means acknowledging these contradictions. She stated, "Anyone who expects to be a perfect advocate is setting the bar impossibly high."

The debate regarding climate change typically stalls at this point. Many athletes and outdoor enthusiasts hesitate to take a stand because they either don’t think their opinion matters or they don’t want to seem like hypocrites themselves. However, advocacy can reflect the difficulties so long as progress toward a more sustainable future is advocated.

Most people get too caught up in the individual aspect of climate advocacy and climate change in general. However, we will not make significant progress if we attempt to address this issue individually.

Instead, involvement in the public sphere and systemic action will bring about change. When I questioned Dr. Burakowski what the best thing someone can do to make an impact, she said: “vote”.

Buying an electric car or remembering to turn off the lights when you leave a room won't make the difference between sustainability and disaster with the way things are going. Real progress requires a collective effort — new climate policy, corporate accountability and government action.