Sustainable Travel

Conquering the biggest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions to your skiing holiday

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Sustainable Travel

Understanding Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Travel

Travelling to resort can contribute as much as three quarters of the greenhouse gas emissions of your skiing holiday, if you fly and take a small transfer, according to a study conducted on behalf of the French government by three resorts: La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand, and Tignes.

Short haul and domestic flights have long been understood to be a major contributor to global carbon emissions, with the aviation industry accounting for around 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to this, the expulsion of greenhouse gas emissions high in the atmosphere creates a direct warming effect, meaning the aviation industry accounts for 3% of global warming.

More and more people are understanding the impacts of flying to resort on their skiing holiday, and actively exploring alternatives to flying. Unless significant changes are made to the aviation industry in the immediate future, the elimination of air travel from a skiing holiday may be the only solution to cutting the greenhouse gas emissions of your holiday.

Luckily, there are several alternatives available.

A graphic outline the breakdown of the carbon footprint of a week skiing by sector — This graphic shows the results of a study conducted on behalf of the French Government by La Clusaz, Le Grand Bornand and Tignes ski resorts, translated and updated for the UK ski market by Protect Our Winters UK (POW). The full study – available in French – is available here.

Protect Our Winters (POW) UK

Sustainable Travel Solution

Take the Train

Taking the train to the Alps is one of the most effective ways to slash your greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, taking the train is quiet, comfortable and relaxing. With the recent announcement of return of a nearly direct Ski Train from Eurostar, it is becoming easier and easier to travel by train this winter. Don’t forget to book in advance for the best prices.

By taking the train, you can slash your greenhouse gas emissions from travel by a staggering 92%

Taking the Train

Sustainable Travel Solution

Driving to Resort

Whilst not the most obvious choice for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, sharing a car with three other people can have a big impact on your carbon emissions. Furthermore, unlike the aviation industry, the automotive industry is alive with carbon-reducing innovation and change, with more options than ever to drive hybrid or fully electric vehicles.

Driving to the Alps

Sustainable Travel Solution

Go by Coach

Coach travel options are more limited these days, but there remain plenty of options, most departing overnight from London’s Victoria Coach Station. For more information on taking the coach to the Alps, check out our guide below.

Going by Coach

Summary

When planning your travel this winter, remember the following:

Flying to resort can account for up to 75% of greenhouse gas emissions of your holiday
Taking the train is the easiest and most effective method to cut your greenhouse gas emissions associated with travel
Driving to resort is an effective method to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions – but only if shared with other people
Book in advance to save money on train, coach and ferry bookings
Eurostar has return an almost direct Ski Train to the timetable this winter
There are a huge array of resorts in France, Austria and Switzerland that can be reached via train