In the second part of a series discussing the impact of climate change on winter sports, freestyle skier Marion Thénault reflects on her experience working outdoors over the past seven years. She has witnessed both the beauty of snowy winters essential for her sport and the harsh reality of climate change affecting skiing activities.
Thénault recalls competing in World Cup events where green grass covered the mountains, except for the artificial snow used for the competition, creating a stark contrast. She expressed feeling out of place in such environments due to the artificial elements. Moreover, she highlighted how melting snow can affect the execution of jumps and tricks by altering an aerial skier’s takeoff and speed.
A study from 2024 commissioned by the International Olympic Committee revealed a concerning trend of decreasing suitable locations to host the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games due to climate change. This poses a significant threat to winter sports that rely on natural snow coverage.
Thénault, along with other athletes, has been actively advocating for climate action. She aims to make her journey to the upcoming Olympics carbon neutral by working with experts to measure her carbon footprint. Additionally, she joined other Canadian athletes in urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to take swift action against climate change.
The IOC is also addressing climate concerns by pledging to reduce emissions and promoting sustainability in hosting major sporting events. There is a growing consensus among athletes and officials that urgent action is needed to combat climate change and preserve the environment for future generations.