Climate expert targets Odermatt

On the day that Marco Odermatt (25) becomes sensational downhill world champion, Julian is enough shaker (Austria, 24) sent an open letter to the World Ski Federation FIS. He calls for more investment in climate protection. The requirements? A more transparent approach to the theme of sustainability, 50 percent reduction in emissions from 2030 and climate-neutral FIS events by 2035. Many World Cup stars support it with their signature – Odermatt is not one of them.

The environmental organization Greenpeace does not like that. “Marco Odermatt does not seem to have fully grasped the seriousness of the situation,” says her climate expert Nathan Solothurnmann according to “CH Media”. The criticism is that he is apparently unaware of his function as a role model in the whole sustainability debate.

Plan as best you can

Before the criticism, Odermatt confirmed in an interview with “CH Media” that he had been asked to sign. “But I didn’t want to put my name first because I can’t meet the requirements 100 percent.” If you are a top athlete at the World Cup, there is nothing to do but fly a lot.

That is why he is reticent in the debate. But, “You have to plan as best you can, that’s important,” says Odermatt. “There are hundreds of ways you can contribute. We’re riding in the World Cup. If you don’t want to travel that far, you can start in the European Cup.”

“Climate protection means more than just missing a few flights,” says Solothurnmann. “If you lead by example, you can do much more than just reduce your own emissions.”

According to Greenpeace, given advancing climate change, the World Ski Association “should have the utmost interest in rapidly reducing its carbon footprint”. There are many options for this, such as professional planning of the locations or allowing fans to travel by public transport.

Odermatt management has not yet responded to Blick’s request for comment on the criticism.

Weather and snow research

FIS chairman Johan Elias (61) is aware of climate change. “We have to adapt,” he says in an interview with Blick. “This planet was not designed for 8 billion people living like us. So we have to invest in new technologies, in renewable energy.”

It is important to do weather and snow research – this was especially noticeable due to the lack of snow at the start of the season. This is the only way to ensure that you are in the right place at the right time. “We have to be smart when designing the race calendar.”

Source : Blick