Industry News
An upcoming film created by professional skier and Protect Our Winters (POW) Athlete Alliance member Amie Engerbretson, The Hypocrite, challenges the notion that winter sports athletes are hypocrites because they leave a large carbon footprint while chasing snow around the world, all while advocating for the climate. Although this film has yet to premiere, the message reflects a fundamental responsibility winter sports athletes have as climate advocates. As role models of the community and preachers of climate change, these public figures are looked upon for what it means to be an active proponent in protecting our environment.
It’s great to see many winter sports athletes financially support foundations that actively protect our environment. Contributions like this are what spread awareness and ensure climate advocacy programs remain alive and functioning at a high level, but writing a check is not everything. Those who represent winter sports under the eye of the media must set an example of what a true climate advocate is, and that is practicing what you preach. If we can’t change our ways, no amount of money can help the environment.
The recent event hosted by Moncler in St. Moritz, Switzerland, is an example of this. Athletes such as Shaun White were seen on social media flying in a private jet to the event, a well-known source of avoidable greenhouse gas emissions. Although White financially endorses organizations like POW, actions speak volumes, and being a climate advocate goes beyond the check. It’s disappointing to see representatives of our industry not back their word in climate advocacy.
However, change is not built on blame, and instead, our energy and focus should be towards action. This is a reminder that we can all do better as climate advocates ourselves. While a select number of people in our industry are in the limelight, the community as a whole has the power to work towards a common goal.
Although hypocritical actions by high-profile figures are discouraging, focusing on significant systemic changes is required to shape a better future. Amie Engerbretson describes her feelings during the making of the film, The Hypocrite on POW’s website.
“Making this film has been one of the more challenging and vulnerable experiences of my life. My ultimate hope is to offer a new way to think about our roles as individuals and to spark new conversations about how we can all be part of the solution. I truly believe there is great capacity within the outdoors community, and if we can all unify over our shared passions to protect what we all love, we have the potential for tremendous power to effect change. None of us are or can be perfect, but we all have a role in creating the solutions for the future. I want to invite all people, who love the outdoors in any way, to be part of the solution.”
As Engerbretson mentioned, “None of us are or can be perfect.” The message is clear for the film as it aims to diverge from hate and blame and create a unified community. An aligned effort also creates something more powerful than any one individual, hope. Together, climate advocacy can be a supportive and collective movement to protect what we all love.
