One of the World's Most Sustainable Ski Resorts
Skiresort recognises SkiWelt for its environmentally friendly ski operations
SkiWelt has once again been named the world's top performer in the Environmentally Friendly Ski Operations category for 2026. The world's largest ski resort review platform, Skiresort, honoured SkiWelt with this award. These accolades reflect the consistent progress made over recent years. Quality, innovation, and environmentally responsible ski operations remain firmly embedded in SkiWelt's philosophy.
Since 1977, the lift companies at the 6 access points between the Brixental Valley and the Wilder Kaiser have worked together successfully. Continuous investment totalling more than half a billion euros has helped create one of the largest and most environmentally sustainable ski resorts in the world.
SkiWelt's Sustainability Projects
In 2017, SkiWelt introduced GPS controlled snow management. By distributing snow across the slopes with greater precision, the system helps reduce both energy and water consumption.
Another milestone followed in 2024, with the opening of the new chairlift in Scheffau. It is the highest capacity 8-seat-chairlift in the world. Thanks to its dedicated photovoltaic system, it generates around 50% of its own energy requirements, making it one of the world's most sustainable lift installations.
The lift company in Söll has also continued to invest in resource efficient energy solutions. Its own small hydroelectric power plant supplies around 25% of annual energy demand. During the summer season, it covers the entire energy requirement. Since summer 2025, SkiWelt's lift companies have also operated shared local energy communities. Electricity generated within SkiWelt is supplied directly to another partner within the ski area whenever it is needed. This keeps renewable energy within the region and ensures it is used where it delivers the greatest benefit.
About the award and certification
The Skiresort Awards are among the most respected international quality awards in the cable car and tourism industry. Since 1998, Skiresort has published independent reviews and awards for ski resorts around the world. Every review is based exclusively on an on site inspection carried out by the Skiresort testing team, ensuring objective and reliable assessments.
Assessment criteria for the Environmentally Friendly Ski Resort Award:
• Sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility
• Closing ski runs or sections of slopes during periods of insufficient snow cover to protect alpine grassland
• Protected wildlife areas and restricted zones for animals
• Environmental education and raising awareness among winter sports enthusiasts
• Use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydropower
• Energy efficient operation of lift systems, with modern installations replacing older, diesel powered equipment
• Environmentally responsible snowmaking through modern technology, careful integration into the natural landscape, snow depth monitoring and energy management
• Waste reduction, including the use of reusable tableware instead of disposable products in mountain restaurants
• Environmentally responsible waste collection, recycling and waste separation
• Encouraging travel by public transport and car sharing
• Supporting local mobility with efficient public transport and frequent ski bus services
• Car free villages and resort areas
• Promotion of locally sourced products
• Existing environmental awards and recognised sustainability certifications
More awards
