In collaboration with the engineering firm "Mountain Riders" its owner, Stephane Lagarde, has calculated the internal and external greenhouse gas emissions for the "écOrider" Ski School in Chamonix/F. The calculation not only included such factors as the heating energy requirements of the premises or the ski instructors' journey to work, but also the tourists' journey, their accommodation and the grey energy of the skiing equipment. The carbon footprint measurement shows that for the 2008/2009 winter season almost 90% of emissions were attributable to the tourists' journey.
The carbon footprint measurement is used to identify and reduce the emissions resulting from the ski school's activities. Various measures have been taken or are to be implemented in the future. These include raising the awareness of tourists and encouraging them to use public methods of transport for their journey to the school and also during their stay.
The carbon footprint measurement is being followed up by the French Environment and Energy Management Agency ADEME and will be awarded a certification.
Sources and further info: www.ecorider.org/ (fr/en), www.mountain-riders.org/ (fr)