Celebrate Earth Day
As skiers and riders, winter in New Hampshire is something we look forward to every year. From the first chair in early season to spring turns, being on the mountain is a big part of how we connect with the outdoors, but the future of winter in the Granite State depends on a healthy and stable climate. This Earth Day, we’re sharing a few resources to help skiers and riders better understand the challenges facing our sport and what we can all do to support the mountains we care about to protect them for future generations.
Why Earth Day is Important for Skiing
Winter in New Hampshire has always had its ups and downs, but in recent years, the changes in temperature, snowfall, and season length have become more noticeable. Snowmaking and new technology help resorts adapt, but long-term sustainability depends on addressing larger environmental issues.
Earth Day is a chance for all of us to learn a bit more and take simple steps that support the future of winter recreation.
Climate and Energy Basics
If you’re looking to better understand climate change and energy use, there are a few reliable places to start. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) breaks down climate science with clear data and visuals, and NASA's Climate Change page explains the evidence, causes, and effects in a straightforward way.
Closer to home, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) shares information on local climate trends, environmental programs, and sustainability efforts across the state.
The Ski Industry and a Changing Climate
Because snowsports rely on consistent winter conditions, skiers and riders often notice and feel the impacts of climate change firsthand. Resorts across the country and here in New Hampshire are working to improve energy efficiency and reduce their environmental impact. You can visit Ski NH’s Sustainability Page to see what member ski areas are doing.
There are many organizations that are also taking action. Protect Our Winters (POW) brings together athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to advocate for climate solutions and shares resources and news to inspire action to protect places we love. The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) leads programs like Sustainable Slopes to help ski areas across the country commit to sustainable practices.
New Hampshire’s Energy Future
Energy use is a big part of ski area operations, from snowmaking to grooming. It is also an area where new technology is making a difference.
Ski New Hampshire supports conversations around clean energy, including NH Energy Week. This statewide series of events brings together community members, industry leaders, and policymakers to talk about the future of energy in New Hampshire. Topics often include energy efficiency, renewable energy, and emerging technologies.
The New Hampshire Department of Energy offers programs and tools that can help improve energy use at home and in local communities. Groups like the Granite State Clean Cities Coalition (GSCCC), managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, are working to reduce petroleum use in vehicle fleets through education, grants, and partnerships.
If you’re interested in making a change in your own life, Drive Electric NH shares practical information about electric vehicles, including charging, incentives, and what to expect when driving electric in New Hampshire. We also recommend taking a look at guides like Heatmap’s “Decarbonize Your Life” for ideas on reducing your overall carbon footprint.
Stewardship Starts Outdoors
Taking care of the environment also comes down to how we spend time outside.
In New Hampshire, Visit NH’s Wildly Responsible initiative encourages people to enjoy the outdoors while taking care of it. That can be as simple as respecting wildlife, being prepared, and staying on trails.
Organizations like the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) support conservation and outdoor education throughout the region, and New Hampshire State Parks provide ways to get involved through volunteering and local programs.
Take Action This Earth Day
Small actions still matter, whether they’re directly impacting something in your community or inspiring someone else to make a sustainable change. Here are a few ways that you can take action this Earth Day:
Carpool or use shared transportation when heading to the mountain
Consider learning more about electric vehicle options
Support ski resorts and businesses that prioritize sustainability
Reduce energy use at home when you can
Join a local cleanup or volunteer event
Follow events like NH Energy Week to stay informed
Support organizations working on climate and conservation efforts
Reach out to your local representatives to support climate and clean energy initiatives
Written By
Emily York