160 of the largest ski resorts in the U.S. (70 percent of visits) have endorsed the
Environmental Charter for Ski Areas, produced by the National Ski Areas Association. It
was developed with support from the U.S. EPA and in consultation from environmental
NGOs. Its’ 24 pages commit the industry to ongoing environmental performance
assessments, to setting goals for improvement, and providing guidance on best practices.
The Charter outlines elements of sustainable planning and design, stakeholder relations,
environmental facility management, wildlife and forest management, and ways to
integrate visitor environmental awareness with the resort experience.
Ski resorts that follow the principles may display a “Sustainable Slopes” logo. SKI
Magazine printed thousands of copies of the charter for ski areas to distribute to
visitors. NSAA will collect data from resorts annually and issue a progress report.
The EPA is providing technical assistance through its Water Alliance for Voluntary
Efficiency, WasteWise, Energy Star, and Smart Growth programs.
NSAA: [sorry this link is no longer available]