policy is constantly changing. The record of CO 2 mitigation may be used to avoid penalties such as carbon taxes or carbon fees that may be implemented at the Federal, state, or municipal level(s). NSAA Golden Eagle Awards and Sustainable Slopes Grant Program The sustainability officer or director should explore all climate change opportunities that include private organizations like the National Ski Area Association (NSAA) or International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS… in French, Fédération Internationale de Ski et de Snowboard ) . 1. Golden Eagle Awards – Sustainability Categories The Golden Eagle Awards , NSAA’s premier environmental honors established in 1993, spotlight ski areas excelling in sustainability initiatives—this includes energy efficiency and carbon reduction efforts. Key award categories include: • Environmental Excellence : Honors ski areas demonstrating holistic sustainability across operations—from renewable energy to waste diversion. Examples: o 2024 winner: Arapahoe Basin Ski Area attained 100% renewable electricity and became carbon-neutral ahead of schedule. o 2025 winner: The Summit at Snoqualmie, WA, earned the award by reducing propane use, transitioning to renewable diesel, and achieving 95% landfill diversion. • Climate Change Impact : Awards projects that result in measurable carbon reductions or climate resilience. Examples: o 2025 winner: Sun Valley Resort’s geothermal snowmelt system eliminated natural gas use and cut Scope 1 emissions by ~101 metric tons CO₂ per year.
• Innovation in Sustainability : Recognizes creative solutions that push the industry forward.
o 2025 finalist: Blue Mountain Resort (Ontario) used telematics to reduce fuel use by 15%.
• Hero of Sustainability : Highlights an employee making a significant environmental impact.
o 2025 finalists: Anna Nason (Mt. Rose, NV), Hunter Wright (Eldora, CO), and Megan Wagaman (Copper Mountain, CO).
2. Sustainable Slopes Grant Program Established in 2009 and still active in 2025, the Sustainable Slopes Grant Program provides funding (cash and/or in-kind) to support ski area sustainability projects, particularly in energy efficiency and footprint reduction.
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