Tree planting programs play an integral role in the Pennsylvania resorts’ green initiatives. Each season resorts grow and transplant hundreds of new trees on the slopes, which not only protects skiers and the terrain, but also reduces the carbon footprint, lowers energy usage, and revitalizes ecologic life.

Skiers will find more recycling containers on the slopes and trails, making it easier than ever to dispose of plastic, paper, cardboard and glass. And, gallons of motor oil are also being recycled and repurposed.

Snowmaking is by far the largest use of energy for the ski slopes and has also been where tremendous improvements have been made to reduce fuel emissions and increase efficiency. Many resorts have installed automated snowmaking systems. Since the system can be controlled remotely, less equipment is needed on the mountain. And, the addition of HKD low energy snow guns allows resorts to make snow faster and increase coverage without increasing energy costs.

Supporting the local community is important. And, many Pennsylvania resorts have a long history of supporting local organizations and programs by hosting charity events, Earth Day celebrations and also participating in volunteer clean-up events.

Many ski resorts have been eliminating the use of Styrofoam products in favor of recycled and biodegradable paper products. While Styrofoam can take over 100 years to decompose, biodegradable products can decompose to 64% in just 180 days. The green initiative includes everything from paper straws and restaurant serving baskets to toilet paper, garbage bags, hand towels and cleaning products.

Protecting precious water supplies has been a dedicated initiative both on and off the mountain. Resorts are working to ensure the water used in snowmaking is kept in its natural state and that it returns unchanged back into the same stream waters from which it came. Guest water consumption has also been reduced in the lodges by adjusting washing machine cycles, shower heads and encouraging less frequent replacements of sheets and towels.