The future of snow tourism in Spain is increasingly uncertain as global temperatures rise. Climate change is pushing the planet toward higher heat levels, which threatens the viability of ski resorts and the economic models built around them. Artificial snow and the heavy energy and water demands that come with it are likely to become more costly and less sustainable as temperatures climb. These dynamics put pressure on the industry to rethink how it operates and where it invests its resources.
New research published by Nature Climate Change presents what experts describe as the most comprehensive assessment to date of how human-caused climate change is reshaping European winter recreation. The study analyzes the distribution of natural and artificial snow across European ski resorts and estimates the portion of slopes that could be affected as conditions warm. It also places these changes in the context of historical climate data from 1961 to 1990, during which global temperatures rose by about 0.6 degrees Celsius. The findings suggest a significant shift in the snowy landscape that supports ski economies across the continent.
European stations that rely on artificial snow face unique challenges. The study notes that the production of artificial snow requires substantial water and energy inputs, and the balance between natural snow and manufactured snow could determine whether a resort remains economically viable. The research points to the fact that when more than a quarter of slopes rely on artificial snow, demand for resources accelerates, intensifying the carbon footprint per skier and raising questions about long-term sustainability.
Visual assessments and projections indicate that Spain, along with other southern European nations, will be among the most vulnerable regions. Northern countries may weather the shift more effectively, but southern resorts will likely see a more dramatic impact on operations and maintenance costs as temperatures rise. The implications extend beyond weather patterns to the financial health of local tourism ecosystems that depend on winter sports, including jobs, seasonal revenue, and regional planning priorities.
Artificial snow: a double-edged sword
Artificial snow is often described as a lifeline when natural snowfall fails to materialize. Yet it is not a simple workaround. The energy and water requirements increase with higher temperatures, and the broader climate impact becomes a critical consideration. When a resort reaches a threshold where more than 25 percent of its snow cover is artificial, resource demands surge, and the operation’s profitability can be compromised. The resulting carbon footprint rises and the sustainability narrative around snow tourism becomes more complex.
For Spanish stations, the pressure is clear: water and electricity use for artificial snow can grow rapidly as climate conditions worsen. Projections show a yearly increase in demand of about 10 percent if temperatures rise by more than two degrees Celsius, and roughly 20 percent if they exceed four degrees. The energy needs drive higher emissions per skier, contributing to a 13 percent increase in the carbon footprint under a two-degree scenario and up to 25 percent under a four-degree scenario. Today, the average carbon footprint per skier in Spain sits near 1.6 kilotonnes of CO2 equivalent, underscoring the environmental stakes tied to the industry’s future choices.
The study, led by a team including Hugues François, a specialist from the French Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment, aims to offer detailed guidance for the tourism sector and policymakers across Europe. The goal is to identify viable economic alternatives for regions that depend on winter sports as energy and water costs for slope maintenance become increasingly unsustainable. The researchers emphasize the need for proactive planning that considers climate projections, resource limits, and the evolving expectations of travelers who value both experience and environmental responsibility.
In summary, the research paints a clear picture: a majority of Europe’s ski slopes face a future of reduced natural snow and greater reliance on artificial snow under ongoing warming. The path forward will likely require a mix of innovations in water and energy efficiency, changes in resort operating models, and regional strategies that diversify tourism offerings while protecting the regions most at risk. This is a turning point for European winter tourism and a call to action for governments and industry leaders alike. Source: Nature Climate Change, 2024.
……….
A formal assessment and guidance document from the environment sector notes the urgency of adapting policies and practices to the new realities of climate-driven snow. The emphasis is on securing sustainable options for water use, energy management, and the broader climate impacts of snowmaking. The conversation now centers on how to balance visitor experience with environmental stewardship, ensuring that winter sports can continue to be enjoyed while minimizing the footprint left on local ecosystems and communities.
camera/ads