Skiers ride a gondola at a resort in the France Alps

The World Meteorological Organization said Thursday that it was working with the International Ski and Snowboard Federation to raise awareness of the harmful effects of climate change on winter sports and tourism. The two organizations will sign an initial five-year campaign to draw attention to the wide-ranging impact of rising global temperatures on snow and ice, while taking steps to strengthen the science and sports-related dialogue.

Ice and snow conditions are gradually deteriorating

Between 2023 and 2024, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation was forced to cancel 26 of the 616 World Cup events due to weather.

Several studies have shown the impact of climate change on winter sports and tourism, including one conducted in Switzerland that showed that the volume of Alpine glaciers has decreased by 60% since 1850.

Another study found that winters are getting warmer, and according to the Switzerland Climate Change Study, by 2060 the temperature on the slopes will only drop to zero degrees if you rise to about 1300 to 1500 meters above sea level. Fifty years ago, the frozen water level was about 600 meters.

"The Tip of the Iceberg"

World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General Sauro said the impact of climate change on winter sports and tourism was just "the tip of the iceberg". Glacier retreat, reduced snow and ice cover, and melting permafrost are having a significant impact on mountain ecosystems, communities, and economies, with increasing consequences at the local, national, and global levels in the coming centuries.

In November, the World Meteorological Organization and the International Ski and Snowboard Federation will jointly host a webinar for national ski associations to discuss the impact of global warming on the industry as a whole.