Right in the heart of winter, many find it the perfect time to let loose and hit the slopes. Preparing those mountain slopes for thousands of skiers, and traveling to get there, makes a big impact on the environment. This year, try to lessen your snowshoe footprint by skiing a little greener.
- Lower your travel footprint. Getting you to the ski resort makes the biggest environmental impact. Be sure you round up all your friends and carpool in a fuel-efficient vehicle. Or, find others traveling to the same resort on Facebook or Twitter. The best way to lessen your travel footprint on the slopes: ski close to home.
- Do your homework. With a little research, you can find ski areas that are working the hardest to love the planet. Groups like the Ski Area Citizen’s Coalition or the National Ski Area Association can help.
- Find green gear. There many options out there for boards and skis made of sustainable materials. Better yet, buy used gear or rent your gear instead. It can be just as good as new… and is a whole lot cheaper!
- Donate your used equipment. Keep your old snow gear out of the landfill by turning it over to the Salvation Army or any other organization that will put your stuff to good re-use. Some companies will even take your broken old skis and remake them into one-of-a-kind furniture.
- Bring your own water bottle/thermos. Instead of ordering fountain pop, hot chocolate and bottled water at the lodge, bring your own thermos to fill up.
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This week’s tips made possible by Millennium Recycling.
Filed under: One Tip to Know, reuse, Transportation
