Meet the skiers shining a light on sustainable skiing

Skiers Alice Linari and Lorenzo Alesi focus on sustainable skiing in their new documentary The Melting Point.

Skiers and adventurers Lorenzo Alesi and Alice Linari decided to put their passion to the test by skiing and traveling sustainably across half of Italy. From the southernmost glacier in Europe to the continent’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc.

This journey is the subject of their new documentary, Melting Point, directed by Paolo Prosperi. On this expedition, Alice and Lorenzo interview mountain guides and other local experts on how climate change is devastating Europe’s skiing paradises.

Climate change is something that affects all spheres of life on earth – skiing included. Not only are skiing destinations around the world affected by the global temperature rise, but ski tourism can negatively impact the environment.

If you’re interested in trying out eco skiing or want to find out more about the state of Europe’s mountains and glaciers, read the Q&A with Alice and Lorenzo below.

Q: What issues is The Melting Point tackling?

A: The key issues we tackle in the film are related to the effects of climate change, which we can see in the melting of ice, the modification of climate, the water crisis in some areas.

The climate crisis seems unstoppable, and it is radically changing our life, it risks compromising our future and the future of next generations, so we really want to raise awareness and call everybody for action, now.

(Ski touring is a more sustainable choice than using ski lifts.)

Q: What was the hardest thing about eco skiing across Italy?

A: We had to rethink mobility. For local explorations within 100 km we used electric motorbikes, trying to manage energy in the best possible way. To reach the most distant places we opted for van sharing solutions, traveling with other people driving to the same areas.

Thinking of creative solutions for slower and shared mobility while saving energy was challenging, as it requires good time management and organization. But knowing that we could cut CO2 emissions and share our message with others was really a big motivation.

Q: Making the documentary, did you find out something that shocked you?

A: The retreat and melting of the glaciers is astounding. We shot the film last winter, between December and March. Last winter was very snowy so we found ideal conditions to capture the beauty of these places.

We went back to those locations in spring and summer this year, and the scenario unfortunately confirmed that snowy winters are not enough to protect the glaciers and ice. Also, in other areas such as the Sibillini Mountains, the water crisis is serious despite heavy rainfall. So, nature needs our help and immediate action to fight climate change.

(Despite snowy winters, glaciers are diminishing around Europe.)

Q: Your film is about climate change… do we still have time to turn things around?

A: We don't know, but we have to try. We need to acknowledge the situation and change our behaviors and start travelling using electric cars, motorbikes, and trains to conserve energy. In the mountains, we need to start preserving uncontaminated areas and supporting local communities.

We also need to start urging outdoor companies to accelerate the use of renewable energy and no longer use coal in industrial processes. We need to move towards a circular economy, using entirely recyclable materials and ending the use of chemicals to waterproof clothing. We need to develop new technologies, more organic fibers, and find a new life for used gear.

These are just a few examples of what we can do immediately to save our planet.

Q: What do you want the film to achieve?

A: We would like everyone to realize that we have been lucky enough to film towering glaciers, majestic snow-capped peaks, wonderful untouched areas, but that these areas and their communities are at risk. The modification of the territories is already underway, it is necessary to intervene immediately.

We would like everyone to start thinking that a different way of going to the mountains is possible. The future is now. Let’s shape it together.

Alice and Lorenzo’s challenge: Try to go for a fully sustainable ski trip yourself at least once this winter season!