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Today we are exploring the splendid world of snowmaking.

Is using mineral additives the future of snow production?

Let’s find out!

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Mineral Additive Snowmaking

Australia is exploring the use of mineral additives in snowmaking technology to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of artificial snow production, particularly in regions affected by unpredictable weather patterns.

These additives, often derived from naturally occurring minerals, act as ice nuclei, facilitating the formation of ice crystals at warmer temperatures than traditionally possible. 

By incorporating these mineral additives into the snowmaking process, Australian ski resorts aim to extend their operating seasons, improve snow quality, and reduce energy consumption, ultimately making snowmaking more sustainable and resilient in the face of climate change.

Potential Impact

Australia’s winter tourism economy is currently worth $3.3 billion AUD.

If mineral additive snowmaking is a successful technology, it will give a competitive advantage to the ski resorts that adopt it. Thus, the advantage this technology gives could shift hundreds of millions of dollars in this economy to these resorts.

Why this WILL be disruptive:

• Environmental and Climate Change Benefits: Mineral additive snowmaking reduces the environmental impact by using less water and enabling snow production at higher temperatures. This technology helps ski resorts adapt to warmer winters caused by climate change, ensuring continued operations even in challenging conditions. By reducing water usage, it alleviates pressure on local water resources, particularly in water-scarce regions like Australia. Additionally, it improves climate change resilience, helping resorts maintain operations as natural snow becomes less reliable.

• Improved Snow Quality and Consistency: Mineral additives enhance the quality and consistency of artificial snow, creating better skiing conditions throughout the season. This ensures a more reliable snow base, boosting skier satisfaction and resort revenues, especially in regions where natural snow is unpredictable, such as Australia.

• Extended and Predictable Ski Seasons: With the ability to produce snow at higher temperatures, mineral additives extend the ski season and improve snow quality in marginal conditions. This leads to more reliable season openings and closings, benefiting both resorts and tourists with better planning.

Why this WON’T be disruptive:

• Environmental and Ecological Concerns: The long-term environmental consequences of introducing mineral additives into the alpine environment remain largely unknown. While these additives are often marketed as biodegradable and environmentally friendly, there are concerns about their potential impact on local ecosystems, including soil and water chemistry, which could affect flora and fauna. Additionally, even with improved snowmaking efficiency, the technology doesn’t fully address water availability issues in regions already facing shortages.

• Cost Implications: The initial investment in upgrading snowmaking systems to accommodate mineral additives can be significant, especially for smaller or regional resorts. While the technology may reduce long-term energy and water costs, the high upfront costs may be a barrier for many resorts, particularly in industries with volatile, seasonal revenues.

• Public Perception and Resistance to Change: Some skiers and snowboarders may prefer natural snow experiences and view artificial snow negatively, raising concerns about the altered snow quality. Additionally, the ski industry has long relied on traditional snowmaking methods, and many resorts may be hesitant to adopt new technologies due to uncertainty over their effectiveness, financial viability, or potential environmental impact. This resistance to change, combined with the lack of comprehensive data on the technology's long-term performance, could slow adoption.