zeit.de
Early Ski Lift Opening in Sauerland
A ski lift in Sauerland, Germany opened two weeks early thanks to a new snow-making technology, offering a preview of the winter season.
German
Germany
TechnologyGermany SportsSustainabilityWinterSkiing
Wintersport-Arena SauerlandDpa-Infocom
Florian Leber
- When did the first ski lift in Sauerland open and why?
- A ski lift in Sauerland, Germany, opened two weeks earlier than usual, offering a "first slim selection" for winter sports enthusiasts on a 600-meter-long slope of artificial snow.
- How common is the new snow-making technology in Sauerland?
- While this lift uses a new all-weather snow-making technology, 90% of slopes in Sauerland still rely on conventional snow cannons.
- What is the plan for the ski resort after the early opening?
- The early opening of the ski lift is a pre-opening to test operations before the full opening with more lifts and longer slopes, which is expected when stable sub-zero temperatures allow for broader snow-making operation.
- What technology allows for the early opening of the ski lift?
- The early opening is possible thanks to a modern snow-making system that can produce snow even without stable sub-zero temperatures, making the season more predictable.
- What are some sustainability efforts related to this new technology?
- The new technology allows for earlier snow production and a longer season, and one operator plans to use the waste heat from the cooling machine to heat a large ski hut, promoting sustainability.