Sustainable School Ski Trips

SkiBound is a part of the Experience Education division within Travelopia. At Travelopia, we are driven by travel’s potential for good; our diverse portfolio of travel businesses is unified in their common purpose “to enrich lives through inspiring travel experiences”, not only for our guests but also for the people and places we visit.

We recognise the urgent nature of the climate and biodiversity crisis we face, and that some aspects of tourism are currently contributing to both. We commit to playing our part in reducing these and seeking ways in which we can contribute to the solutions required.

Reducing carbon emissions

We are currently measuring the carbon emissions of our offices and operations, and developing a decarbonisation plan in line with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) carbon reduction goals. Additionally, we are developing plans to support the restoration of the natural landscapes we need to tackle climate change.

Our sustainable travel operational standards ensure that the way in which our trips are operated eliminates or reduces any negative impacts on our destinations and seeks to increase positive impacts for people and places. Closer to home, our sustainable workplace policy drives us to act responsibly in our places of work.

Taking climate action by supporting healthy oceans

As part of our commitment to climate and nature action, we’ve joined our sister companies across the Travelopia Group* to partner with Blue Marine Foundation. 

Our objective is to help conserve the stunning coastlines and marine life that enrich your holidays and restore ocean ecosystems that are vital in tackling climate change.

Together with our sister travel companies, we intend to donate at least £1 million over the next 3 years, with an aim to support the conservation and restoration of 7,000 hectares of vital marine ecosystems through seven global projects.

From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Kenya to Indonesia, these protected “blue carbon ecosystems” have the potential to remove and store thousands of tonnes of carbon every year. They will also help protect a rich diversity of coastal and underwater wildlife, including endangered species. 

Our support will also enable the training and employment of local communities in marine conservation, helping ensure these beautiful places are preserved for generations.

*Skibound is a member of the Travelopia group of travel companies which has come together to partner with Blue Marine Foundation

Sustainability at our SkiBound Clubhotels

We continue to work hard to develop our Responsible Tourism agenda and carry out a full Travelife audit on our Clubhotels located in the French Alps. Created by tour operators and part-funded by the European Union, Travelife introduces hotels to the principles of sustainability. The Travelife audit produces a number of objectives to help our accommodation options improve upon sustainable practices and aim for the coveted Travelife Gold award. Our SkiBound Clubhotels work to ensure they effectively reduce the amount of energy and water used, support local food producers, and make sure those working within our French accommodation have fair working conditions. 

What you can do

Here are some sustainability ideas for when you prepare for your trip: 

• Reduce your waste: Leave any excess packaging at home; carry out what you carry in and dispose of any rubbish appropriately. 

• Minimise your impact on the mountain environment: If there are no bins on the piste, consider keeping your rubbish in your bag until you’re back at the resort or at your hotel. Many ski resorts now have recycling bins. When out and about on the mountain and in resort, look out for them and try and use them whenever possible. 

• Looking after your space: When leaving your room, please turn all lights off. If there are any leaks in your bathroom (i.e. toilet, shower and taps), please let us know so we can fix them quickly and avoid wasting water. If your room temperature is uncomfortably warm, please also let us know so we can attend to this. 

• Consider your transport options: When travelling to your resort by Eurotunnel, ferry, train or plane, you can check your carbon footprint by using an online carbon calculator. 

• Read up before you go: We aim to provide you with the information you need to have a great time in-resort. It is a good idea to read up on your resort and local area to learn more about the mountain, the skiing and destination highlights before you go. 

• Shop locally: When choosing souvenirs, look out for locally-made items rather than imported goods. This ensures your money goes directly back into the local community. 

• Learn the language: Effort and showing a willingness to learn goes a long way with locals. Even a few stumbling words in the local language will be appreciated and will help open doors to conversations, improve upon existing language skills and develop friendships. 

• Be aware of local customs: Every ski resort has its own customs and they may be very different to what you’re used to. As a visitor, it is respectful to observe things and gain a sense of your surroundings. Read up on any cultural aspects associated with your destination so you can better slip into the stream of things when you arrive. 

• Eat, sleep, drink local: If you are buying food or eating out, consider local produce and local restaurants where your money will provide a direct benefit to the local economy.

Sustainable Travel