How to Plan a Sustainable Ski Trip for 2026

Trying to book an eco-friendly winter holiday can be tricky.

Skiing is already known for its enormous environmental impact: from the glitzy helicopter rides to world-class restaurants in remote mountain regions, this sport often comes at the expense of fragile ecosystems.

With a few proactive choices, it is possible to enjoy a ski holiday and reduce your environmental impact too. Here are a few pointers to help you ski green, even on the black runs.

Look out for green resorts

Small changes in your holiday routine can have a big impact. Consider renting gear instead of buying, and sticking to marked trails to protect alpine habitats.

The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has already published its first sustainability guide for ski resorts, which recommends implementing several initiatives, including long-term plans to:

Protect natural habitats

Set Net Zero goals for 2050

Aim for 100% green electricity via renewables

Promote sustainable travel

Set zero waste targets

Before you book your flights, you should take some time to choose the resorts taking their environmental responsibilities seriously.

Don’t get greenwashed

Start by picking a destination committed to sustainability. Sometimes resorts claim to be eco-friendly but simply can’t back it up.

Genuine credentials should be possible to decipher from the start of the booking process: you should expect to see official emissions figures and transparent environmental policies. If you’re in doubt, call up and do your research proactively before you book.

For example, an Alpe d’Huez ski holiday could make a greener choice. This is one of the biggest resorts to have implemented concrete initiatives such as increasing its use of solar energy, expanding recycling efforts, and promoting car-free zones in parts of the resort.

Travel smarter

The way you travel can play a huge role in the total emissions generated for your trip. We recommend avoiding short-haul flights wherever possible, and instead opting to travel by train.

The biggest ski resorts are all accessible by direct trains via Grenoble (France) and Geneva (Switzerland), making rail a lower-emission alternative.

If you can’t take the train, you should still consider coaches or shuttle services. While these are often shared, they can be a cost-effective way to reach some of the most premium ski destinations – and they often include space for your equipment too, which can be costly on planes.

Reduce your own impact

Finally, before you hit the slopes, it’s worth thinking about the way you spend your winter holidays. While relaxing with steak and fondue might feel like the dream, it might not be the most eco-friendly way to dine on a ski resort.

According to a study by République Française, just one day of skiing accounts for 48.9kg of carbon dioxide. Over half of that is emitted through transport, but heating your ski chalet, using specialist equipment and eating in restaurants also play a part.

Booking self-catering apartments and lodges will give you the option to cook delicious meals in comfort – and potentially reduce your carbon footprint while you’re away, too. In a few years, having a brilliant time and staying responsible will come naturally.