Switzerland, famed for its iconic Alpine ski resorts and mountains such as Zermatt's Matterhorn, is experiencing a significant decline in domestic enthusiasm for skiing. Historically central to Swiss culture, skiing has experienced a marked decrease in popularity, falling from a claimed nearly 90% participation among Swiss citizens four decades ago to just 35% today, according to the historian Grégory Quin from the University of Lausanne.
Several factors have contributed to this shift. Rising costs have made skiing increasingly inaccessible, transforming what was once a common pastime into an activity perceived as elitist. Quin points out that skiing was most affordable during the 1980s; since then, costs for equipment, accommodations, and related expenses have outpaced income growth.
Another critical factor is environmental awareness. With the Alps warming at twice the global average rate, snowfall has decreased by 30% over the past century, and snow seasons have shortened considerably. Additionally, sustainability concerns arise from transportation habits, as only 5% of skiers utilize public transport, making car travel responsible for around 70% of their overall carbon footprint.
While international tourism continues to support the industry, Swiss resorts cannot depend just on foreign skiers. Quin emphasizes that lower-altitude stations, which have already begun to adapt to reduced snow levels, are better positioned for the future. However, higher-altitude resorts reliant on consistent snow cover face significant long-term challenges. Ski areas have been compared to junkies, they have a mono-disciplinary addiction to skiing and hope that it will last at least for another term of the mayor or the director of the tourist office.