Many cross-country and alpine skiing enthusiasts are unaware that ski wax releases toxic chemicals into the environment. Fluorinated waxes, in particular, release so-called “forever chemicals” into the snow! Due to their surfactant properties, the PFAS contained in these products improve glide between the ski and the snow surface, which explains their widespread use in winter sports—from cross-country and downhill skiing to snowboarding.
Unfortunately, these particles are dispersed into the environment by abrasion, and then accumulate in the soil and water when the snow melts. This accumulation of PFAS poses a serious threat to the environment, ecosystems and human health.
In response to these dangers, the International Ski Federation (FIS) banned the use of fluorinated ski waxes in 2023. However, a recent study shows that PFAS levels remain high in the snow at ski resorts, highlighting the urgent need to continue efforts to limit their impact. Summit Foundation is therefore actively working on this issue, raising awareness and supporting winter sports stakeholders in transitioning to safer alternatives.
We invite you to ask your local sports stores about the composition of their products. And if you wax your skis yourself, choose a PFAS-free wax and always wear a mask to avoid inhaling harmful particles.
There are many simple actions you can take to reduce—or even eliminate—the problem of littering in the mountains. Here are a few examples:
Plastic
Limit the use of plastic packaging as much as possible and make sure it is properly recycled or disposed of.
Before heading into the mountains, make it a habit to bring a bag with you to carry your waste back and dispose of it responsibly. For your picnics, choose reusable containers like lunchboxes, and opt for a reusable water bottle instead of disposable ones.
When dining at a mountain restaurant, encourage the elimination of single-use plastics (such as individual condiment packets and disposable tableware) in favor of sustainable alternatives.
Cigarette butts
Even though the best solution is to not smoke at all, here are a few tips to prevent cigarette butts from becoming a source of pollution:
Loss of objects
To avoid losing items in the mountains, make sure your pockets are securely closed and avoid using your phone or wallet while on a chairlift. Every year, many valuable objects are found in nature as the snow melts, contributing to pollution.
Rubbish collection
Don't hesitate to pick up any litter you come across in the mountains - nature will thank you! Take a small bag with you to help you do this without dirtying your belongings.
We also invite you to join the Clean-Up Tour, our national litter collection campaign across Switzerland, held every spring and summer. To learn more and get involved: " click here ".
Thanks to the support of the Lausanne 2025 Federal Gymnastics Festival Sustainability Fund, the Summit Foundation is providing organisers in Switzerland with free awareness-raising bubbles covering a range of themes.
These messages are also available in French, German and Italian. Are you an event organizer interested in these boards? Then get in touch with us!
