The winter sports industry is increasingly recognizing the urgent need to address climate change and ensure a sustainable future. Snow is one of the first major victims of a problem that already affects the lives of everyone. In this context, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability through the FIS Impact Report 2024, which it has just published and which sets out key priorities and an action plan for the future.
The report highlights the progress made by FIS and organizes its sustainability goals into three main pillars: eco-responsible choices, responsible choices, and responsible governance.
1. Eco-responsible choices
The first pillar of the report focuses on environmental sustainability and climate action. FIS has collaborated with global experts such as Planet Mark and Deloitte to measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Notable achievements include the launch of a CO₂ calculator, training programs for key industry players, and partnerships with the World Meteorological Organization and the European Space Agency to leverage science and technology in the fight against climate change.
2. Inclusion and human rights
The second pillar, responsible choices, seeks to promote inclusion, human rights, and well-being through sport. An important milestone in this area has been the creation of the framework for the FIS Refugee Team. In December 2023, Atefeh Ahmadi became the first athlete to obtain refugee status from the FIS team, setting a historic precedent in winter sports.
Ahmadi, who sought asylum in Germany after leaving Iran, was one of eight recipients of the Refugee Athlete Scholarship awarded by the Olympic Refuge Foundation. She was also the first Iranian woman to compete in the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, an achievement that underscores FIS’s commitment to accessibility and equity in sport.
3. Responsible governance
The third pillar of the report focuses on responsible governance, promoting long-term value creation, innovation, and collaboration within the winter sports ecosystem. FIS has implemented initiatives such as the FIS Code of Ethics, which promotes fundamental principles such as transparency, integrity, solidarity, and fair play.
