The Laax ski resort in the Swiss Alps has announced an ambitious plan to become carbon neutral by 2030. This initiative requires the elimination of all oil use, the transition to sustainable energy generation, and the reduction of food waste to zero. The resort is positioning itself as a leader in the industry as climate change threatens winter sports destinations across Europe.
Smart Lifts and Electric Machinery
Retaining snow in a warming climate often relies on artificial snowmaking, which can be energy-intensive. Laax addresses this by using hydroelectric power for its snow cannons and avoiding chemical or biological additives in the water. The resort also utilizes electric machinery for piste grooming, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Infrastructure upgrades are central to the strategy. The new gondola system in the neighboring village of Flims uses an algorithm to dispatch individual cars based on passenger demand. This on-demand approach prevents empty gondolas from running up and down the mountain, balancing energy efficiency with the needs of skiers.
Historical Context and Local Culture
Laax has a history of adapting to new trends. Reto Gurtner, the 71-year-old CEO of Flims Laax, introduced snowboarding and mountain biking to the area in the 1970s after studying in California. His father built the first ski lifts in 1962, but it was Gurtner who helped transform the village into a hub for alternative winter sports.
The resort sits at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters, which provides some protection against lower-altitude snow shortages. While parts of Europe face slushy conditions, Laax maintains its slopes. The area also supports diverse wildlife, including returning wolf and lynx populations, which thrive as snowlines retreat.
Community and Tourism Strategy
The resort promotes a concept called “greenstyle,” which combines environmental responsibility with high-quality design. This vision is visible in the new buildings and the integration of traditional village life with modern technology. Neighboring Falera offers a quieter alternative with electric buses and minimal car traffic.
Laax also diversifies its offerings beyond skiing. The resort features a halfpipe for freestyle skiing and extensive hiking trails. This variety helps sustain tourism even when natural snow conditions are less reliable. The goal is to create a resilient model for alpine tourism that can withstand the impacts of climate change.
Source: The Guardian
