The IBU, a proud member of the Wintersports Sustainability Network, applauds the critical strides made by the snow sports industry to implement sustainability and climate action that were showcased at the at the 2nd Ski Industry Climate Summit, held in Munich, Germany, on 2-3 December 2024. Organised in conjunction with the ISPO trade fair by Atomic and the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) with the support of Peak 63 and Protect Our Winters, this pivotal gathering united over 180 professionals from ski and snowboard brands, suppliers, and other industry stakeholders. Together, they discussed actionable solutions to combat climate change, building on the momentum of the inaugural event held in September 2023 in Salzburg, Austria.

This year's summit, themed "From Commitment to Action," underscored the urgency of translating sustainability pledges into measurable results. The event focused on fostering collaboration and innovation across the winter sports sector, which is uniquely vulnerable to the effects of the climate crisis. With snow-dependent activities facing increasing challenges, participants emphasised the necessity of collective responsibility in driving change.

One highlight of the summit was its emphasis on circular economy initiatives and the development of low-impact product lifecycles. This reflects a broader industry trend toward sustainability, as a large number of snow sport brands demonstrate leadership through transparent environmental reporting and impactful changes to their manufacturing processes.

The IBU commends these initiatives as they align closely with its own sustainability goals and the overarching mission of the Wintersports Sustainability Network. As the governing body for the Olympic and Paralympic sports of Biathlon and Para Biathlon, the IBU shares a responsibility to ensure the longevity of its sports and preserve the natural landscapes that are integral to their existence.

Looking forward, the IBU encourages continued industry collaboration and innovation. Events like the Ski Industry Climate Summit showcase the power of united action and set an inspiring example for sports and industries worldwide. Together, we can accelerate progress toward a sustainable future for winter sports and the planet.

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