The Ski Industry Is Oddly Quiet on Climate Change

Key Takeaways

• Western U.S. snowpack at 15‑65% of average
• Ski industry lost over $5 billion from 2000‑2019
• Only ~7% of U.S. ski areas joined Climate Challenge
• 85% of emissions cuts are offsets, not direct reductions
• Outdoor recreation generates $1.3 trillion, outpacing oil sector

Summary

The Western United States is experiencing a severe snow drought, with snowpack at only 15‑65% of normal levels, prompting early resort closures and reduced staffing. Between 2000 and 2019 the U.S. ski industry incurred more than $5 billion in losses due to shortened seasons and higher snowmaking costs. While the National Ski Areas Association’s Climate Challenge tracks some emissions reductions, only about 7% of ski areas participate and most reported cuts rely on offsets rather than direct action. Industry leaders argue that without a coordinated lobbying effort, the sector’s climate risk will keep growing.

Pulse Analysis

The current snow drought across the Rockies and Pacific Northwest is more than a seasonal anomaly; it signals a structural shift that could reshape the ski business model. With snowpack hovering far below historical norms, resorts are forced to curtail operations, lay off staff, and invest heavily in artificial snowmaking—costs that have already contributed to a $5 billion revenue gap over the past two decades. This trend underscores the urgency for ski operators to move beyond incremental sustainability measures and address the root causes of climate change.

Industry‑wide climate reporting remains fragmented. The National Ski Areas Association’s Climate Challenge provides a voluntary framework, yet participation is limited to roughly seven percent of U.S. ski areas. Moreover, the majority of reported emissions reductions stem from carbon offsets and renewable‑energy certificates, tools that critics argue delay real decarbonization. Without transparent, direct emissions data and robust advocacy, the sector risks losing credibility and market share as consumers increasingly demand authentic climate leadership.

The stakes extend beyond ski slopes. Outdoor recreation contributes about $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy—surpassing traditional sectors like oil and gas. As climate impacts intensify, the sector’s collective purchasing power could become a formidable political force. Experts call for major operators such as Vail and Alterra to leverage their influence, lobby for cleaner energy policies, and champion systemic solutions. Aligning business interests with climate action not only safeguards the industry’s future but also reinforces broader economic resilience.