More and more ski runs in the Alps are equipped with installations for producing artificial snow. The topic itself is a controversial one in environmental and tourism circles. The background report contains facts on both the ecological and the economical aspects of artificial snow installations. The introduction looks at the early years of artificial snow-making equipment and the way in which it has developed; it is followed by an explanation of how the system works and the resources used by snow guns; a description of the situation in the Alps today; a review of the costs involved; and a discussion of the impact of artificial snow installations on the environment. The background report is rounded off by a chapter on climate change and the prospects for winter tourism. Additional relevant material on the issue can be found in other language versions of this page.