“Melting Away: The Urgent Threat to Australia’s Ski Industry from Climate Change”
Australia’s ski industry is facing a dire future if urgent action is not taken to address climate change, according to a new report released by Protect Our Winters Australia (POW) and The Australian National University (ANU). The report, based on extensive modelling, predicts that the average ski season across all resorts in Australia could be significantly shorter by 2050 if current levels of climate pollution continue unchecked.
Under a mid-greenhouse gas emissions scenario, the report forecasts a 44-day reduction in the ski season by 2050, while a high-emissions scenario could result in a 55-day decrease. However, the researchers highlight that if decisive action is taken to reduce climate pollution in line with a low emissions scenario, the impact on the ski industry could be mitigated, with a projected 28-day reduction in the ski season by 2050.
The researchers warn that without urgent climate action, some ski resorts may be forced to close permanently. Report co-author Ruby Olsson from ANU emphasizes the need for support measures to help ski resorts adapt to the changing climate and diversify into year-round tourism. She suggests a coordinated approach between state governments and relevant committees to support at-risk ski resorts.
Protect Our Winters Australia Director Sam Quirke stresses the importance of taking action now to prevent further disruptions to the ski industry. He points out that last year’s ski season was challenging due to minimal snowfall, and warns that such occurrences may become more frequent and unpredictable as global warming intensifies.
The report also highlights the critical role of the Australian Alps in providing water resources for agriculture and water security. Snow-melt water runoff from the Alps contributes a significant amount of water to the Murray-Darling Basin, but climate change is projected to reduce rainfall in the Alps and impact catchment yield.
Professor Adrienne Nicotra, co-author of the report and Director of the Australian Mountain Research Facility, emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to address the impacts of climate change on the Alps’ ecosystem. She calls for investment in strategies that bring together scientists, policymakers, resort owners, and local communities to adapt to the changing climate.
The report underscores the urgency of taking immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the future of Australia’s ski industry and the Alpine ecosystem. The full report can be accessed on the Protect Our Winters Australia website.