Laax pursues eco goals

21st March 2018, by Abi Butcher

Laax is working hard to fulfill its pledge to become the world’s first self-sufficient ski resort.

The Swiss ski resort of Laax has announced today that it has reduced its energy consumption by 15 per cent, and is working hard to fulfill its pledge to become the world’s first self-sufficient ski resort.

Laax revealed its environmental vision two years ago, introducing a concept it calls “Greenstyle” to encourage guests to the Graubünden destination to reduce waste, reuse and recycle wherever possible. Local restaurants are sourcing from the region — particularly milk, yoghurt and cheese — and eight water fountains have been installed around the resort to encourage skiers to drink mountain water rather than bottled.

In cooperation with Flims Electric, 100 per cent of the resort’s energy needs are now covered by CO2-neutral sources — using photovoltaic systems at rail stations and the converting heating systems from oil to pellets and heat pumps have created further CO2 savings. Waste heat from the engines of the rail systems is used for the heating needs of surrounding buildings

Laax uses a fleet of state-of-the-art snow groomers with engine data systems that help them travel within the most efficient speed range to reduce fuel consumption and a charging station network for e-bikes and electric cars, renewable mobility has been built.

Lastly, takeaway coffee is sold in “Keep Cups” to try to minimise the use of throwaway cups — with recycling stations installed around the mountain and valley.

• ski
• snowboard
• switzerland
• laax
• environment
• sustainable

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