Human Impact and Global Warming

“Growing up in the mountains is a privilege that comes with the responsibility to protect them.”

— Louisa Moreau, POW France

Global Alpine ecosystems account for 3% of terrestrial habitats yet, along with adjacent mountain systems, provide water resources to nearly half of the world’s human population.

About 14 million people are distributed over approximately 6,000 communities in the European Alps.

Associations across the Alps, such as Protect our Winters (POW), are instrumental in promoting positive human impact and sustainability, encouraging both outdoor enthusiasts and local communities to prioritize conservation efforts.

Human Impact and Sustainability Efforts in the European Alps

Alpine ecosystems account for 3% of terrestrial habitats yet, along with adjacent mountain systems, provide water resources to nearly half of the world’s human population. Approximately 20% of humans live in or near mountain areas. The European Alps are home to approximately 14 million people, distributed across roughly 6,000 communities. These residents must balance traditional activities such as agriculture and tourism while preserving the region’s cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and biodiversity.

Human activities have significantly impacted the alpine environment, contributing to global warming. The Alps have experienced a temperature rise of more than 1.5°C, with some studies indicating an increase of up to 2°C over the 20th century. This is because the warming in the mountains is amplified due to the albedo effect, where the loss of reflective ice and snow surfaces leads to further absorption of heat by darker rock and vegetation. Several scientific articles highlight that the major human-induced activities affecting global warming are Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Air Pollution, Land Use Changes, Industrial Activities, and Tourism and Recreation.

“Temperatures in the Alps are increasing more rapidly than in other regions as warming is amplified in the mountain environments due to less ice and snow reflecting the sun’s rays.”

— J Knight, 2022, P Pastorino et al. 2024

The rapid growth in tourism and population in the Alpine region has also led to significant environmental degradation. Urbanization of river valleys and villages, along with pollution from factories, heating, and vehicles, has severely impacted air and water quality, with some areas experiencing prolonged periods of pollution. Noise pollution has increased, and there has been extensive erosion from ski slopes and road construction, which further weakened the environment.

In response to the pressing issue of climate change, the sports community, including athletes and organizations, has taken significant steps to mitigate their environmental impact. Athletes who have witnessed the direct effects of warming temperatures and shifting snow patterns on their habitat are advocating for change. Athletes promote reducing carbon footprints through practices like carpooling and supporting eco-friendly resorts. They also call for systemic changes, urging the sports industry to adopt renewable energy and circular economy practices.

Uplifting Human Impact on Global Warming

Explore inspiring initiatives that are making a significant impact in the fight against global warming. These projects highlight the creativity and dedication of individuals and communities working together to build a sustainable future in the Alps.

Organizations like Protect Our Winters (POW) play a crucial role in promoting sustainability within communities and encouraging both enthusiasts and industry stakeholders to focus on taking care of the environment. POW are tackling this issue from multiple angles. Their efforts include lobbying through information and mobilization campaigns. They also emphasize the importance of addressing these challenges not only individually but, more importantly, collectively.

“In France, carbon emissions from transportation constitute more than 50% of daily emissions, a proportion that becomes even more pronounced in the context of winter sports.”

Mobility is a top priority for POW because transportation is responsible for over half of the emissions linked to ski resorts. The way we travel to the mountains significantly affects their environment. Currently, 85% of people drive to the mountains, while only 10% use the train. To address the mobility issue, POW France, together with Savoie Mont Blanc Agency and Antidots, launched a mobility platform called POW Mobility.

On this website, you can purchase your low-carbon journey from all over Europe to more than 110 ski resorts in the Savoie and Haute Savoie region, with choices ranging from trains, buses, taxis, and electric car rentals. Customers can book the entire trip, understand the footprint of their journey and identify how it compares to a journey by car or plane. The platform is also a powerful tool for the organization to go and advocate for better-suited schedules, new lines, and cheaper tickets.

“85% of people go to the mountains by car, while only 10% take the train. How we travel to the mountains has the most significant effect on their environment.”

– Trevis Peloux, POW France

Get inspired by

View all resources here

Protect Our Winters (POW)

Protect Our Winters (POW) is an organization founded in 2007 by pro snowboarder Jeremy Jones to mobilize the outdoor sports community against climate change. POW has grown into a global network of over 130,000 supporters, including athletes, resorts, and outdoor enthusiasts. POW aims to proactively protect the environment, jobs, and recreational experiences from the adverse effects of climate change.

VIsit website

Mountain Wilderness

Mountain Wilderness is an organization founded by climbers that emphasizes the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of mountains. They promote self-sufficiency and respect for nature, oppose aggressive commercial exploitation of the mountains, and advocate for sustainable development in mountainous areas.

Visit website

Green Mobility Browser from POW

POW offers different transport solutions to help you choose the least carbon-intensive option for your next trip, from anywhere in Europe and via a single basket.

Visit website

Une Bouteille à la Mer

Founded in May 2020, Une Bouteille À La Mer aims to raise awareness of environmental threats through imagery and sport. The association originated from a volunteer initiative led by skier Mathieu Navillod and photographer Dom Daher.

Visit website

Muntanyes Vives (KJF)

Focused in the Pyrenees region, is an initiative from Kilian Jornet Foundation aimed at promoting responsible enjoyment of nature and providing resources to help preserve mountain environments.

Visit website