Earth is a big place, but individual actions can still have a significant impact.
We’re big fans of the Earth, and try our best to be environmentally-friendly in all aspects of life. Here are some suggestions for simple things that can make a big difference in the long-run:
Use a Reusable Water Bottle and Grocery Bag
Humanity uses a ludicrous amount of plastic water bottles — roughly 1 million are bought per minute — and less than 10% are recycled. It’s environmentally friendly and cost-effective to buy a reusable bottle that can last for years. Many grocery stores are encouraging shoppers to bring their own reusable bags to avoid the need for disposable plastic or paper. The best answer to “Plastic or paper?” is “Neither.”
Earn Your Turns
While winter sports are an inherently consumption-heavy pastime, requiring vast amounts of gear and transportation, there are ways to minimize environmental impacts. Instead of using a chairlift, gondola, or tram to reach the mountaintop, consider skinning or bootpacking. If you have the opportunity, try hoofing it every once in a while.
Bike or Carpool
Whether you’re headed to work or play, try and use low-impact forms of transportation. Biking is a win-win for both the biker and the planet. Bikers don’t consume fossil fuels and get in shape at the same time. Carpooling still uses fuel, but reduces emissions. Plus it’s fun.
Wear Sustainable Clothing
Wearing clothing which incorporates recycled materials is an easy way to look stylish while passively contributing to waste-reduction. TGR, for example, offers a line of recycled clothing. Each item contains 8 plastic bottles which otherwise would add to the staggering amount of plastic which populates our landfills.
Support POW
There are numerous ways to get involved with Jeremy Jones’ POW project. Whether you donate money, time, or just want to get educated, POW is an excellent resource and community for environmentally-concerned winter sports enthusiasts.