negative impact on the surrounding ecosystems. There, the bulldozing of slopes and the leveling of the terrain to provide suitable runs for skiers has uprooted vegetation, disturbed wildlife, and led to a decrease in the surrounding wildlife. Birds are especially prone to danger from the creation of this ski pistes; in a study conducted in the Alps range used for the Winter 2006 Olympics, there were birds detected in only 65% of the ski run plots. Additionally, outside of the ski resort, wildlife levels are low, possibly due to a noted decrease in arthropods-a main food source for birds.

 

Besides the danger directly associated with skiing, there are the secondary consequences to consider. With the popularity of ski resorts, there is increased congestion due to increased motor traffic, and ski lifts

The winter months bring times of general merriment for people everywhere. There is time for vacations, and people want to enjoy themselves. Naturally, sports are considered to be a great way to enjoy the holidays and the outdoors. But, do our outdoor winter activities have a negative impact on the environment? Or are skiing and ice skating innocent pastimes?

 

The creation of ski resorts has been a problem for avian wildlife and natural vegetation, especially in the Alps. Lower-level ski resorts are having a harder time staying in business, because the climate changes associated with global warming are decreasing the amount of snow they receive. Thus, the creation of such resorts is taking place above the tree line-where there is more reliable snowfall. However, this is having a

disturb the natural environment for many species. Ski resorts in high altitudes are home to animals seeking a last refuge there; these ski resorts are hurting them the most.

 

To minimize damage to the environment associated with skiing, there are a few options. First, pistes could be constructed with eco-friendly materials, and instead of removing virtually all terrain cover to make the runs, only large boulders could be removed, with only the “roughest terrain being leveled for the runs. Furthermore, compared with downhill skiing, cross-country skiing has far less harm on the environment; switching to this type of winter sport would be a good way to enjoy winter without disturbing our natural environment.

 

Indoor ice rinks seem to pose a health risk to people. The fuel used in ice-resurfaces combined with poor ventilation leads to an unhealthy buildup of carbon monoxide

Winter Sports: Not All Fun and Games for the Environment

By: Cate Shermer

NRHS Environmental Club

and nitrogen dioxide. These gases are harmful to humans, so care should be taken to avoid the build-up of such substances. In this case, at least, it seems ice skating on a pond or lake would be more environmentally friendly than using an indoor rink, which pollutes the indoor environment and could leak out. So, skate responsibly: clean up the area you skate at, and be sure to check ice thickness before participating in any type of recreation on the ice.

 

Basically, the low-impact approach is applicable to winter sports such as skiing and skating. We as humans should have fun, but while trying to impact the environment in as little ways as possible. We just have to be more creative in our design and implantation of ski runs, and carefully ventilate indoor ice rinks or skate outdoors.

 

NRHS website

All pictures, except those of the ice skaters, are curtsey of Microsoft Office Clip Art.