In the second part of a series investigating the impact of climate change on winter sports, Marion Thénault, a freestyle skier, reflects on her experiences over the past seven years. She has witnessed the effects of climate change firsthand, from beautiful winter landscapes to artificial snow-covered mountains at World Cup events.
Thénault emphasizes how climate change affects her sport, particularly in the precision required for aerial jumps and tricks. The changing climate alters snow conditions, making jumps slippery and unpredictable, posing risks to skiers like herself.
A study by the International Olympic Committee in 2024 revealed that fewer locations will have suitable weather to host the Winter Olympics by the 2050s due to climate change. This poses a significant challenge for athletes like Thénault who rely on natural environments for their training and competitions.
Thénault, along with other Canadian athletes, has been advocating for climate action, urging authorities to prioritize environmental sustainability. She is committed to making her journey to the upcoming Olympics carbon neutral and has joined efforts with climate advocacy groups to raise awareness about the urgent need for action.
The IOC has pledged to reduce emissions and promote sustainability in future Olympic Games. One proposal suggests rotating the Winter Olympics among a limited number of permanent venues to address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the long-term viability of the Games.
Athletes like Adam van Koeverden have been vocal about the need for bold leadership and immediate action to combat climate change. As Secretary of Sport in Canada, van Koeverden is advocating for policies that address climate concerns raised by athletes and environmental organizations.
Thénault and fellow athletes are calling for greater urgency in addressing climate change, emphasizing that environmental action should not be delayed but treated as a top priority. With the impact of climate change becoming increasingly apparent in winter sports, athletes are pushing for concrete measures to protect the environment and ensure the future of their sports.