In a stark illustration of climate change's impact, several French ski resorts, including Seyne-les-Alpes and Alpe du Grand Serre, have been forced to close due to insufficient snowfall. These resorts, situated at altitudes between 1,370 and 1,800 meters, are facing dwindling revenues as snowfall becomes increasingly unpredictable and insufficient to sustain winter sports activities.
The financial strain on these municipalities is significant. Seyne-les-Alpes, for instance, has been investing 350,000 euros annually to maintain operations. Despite these efforts, the town has seen a 60 percent drop in revenue, prompting a citizen referendum. In a decisive move, 71.3 percent of the local population voted to dismantle and sell the ski facilities.
Alternative tourism strategies are now being developed to mitigate the economic impact. Seyne-les-Alpes plans to introduce activities such as fishing and trail routes to attract visitors year-round. The transition underscores a broader trend; since the 1970s, around 180 ski resorts in France have closed due to similar challenges.
The closure of these ski areas is a microcosm of a global issue. A study in Nature Climate Change suggests that half of Europe's ski resorts face a high risk of snow scarcity, with all being vulnerable if temperatures rise by 4°C. The reliance on artificial snow has proven costly and environmentally damaging, further complicating efforts to keep resorts viable.
As communities adapt to these realities, the abandonment of traditional skiing facilities marks a poignant shift in the landscape of winter tourism, driven by the pressing realities of a warming planet.
