Mayrhofner Bergbahnen & Sustainability
OUR PLEDGE TO THE MOUNTAINS
Bearing responsibilty for our homeland
We care deeply about our homeland and the mountains. Nature is a precious gift and as such we are committed to treating it responsibly and with respect. As stewards of one of the largest skiing and hiking resorts in Austria, we are acutely aware of how important this duty of responsibility is. To this end, we have pledged to uphold certain promises and goals in order to protect our mountains and homeland. One step at a time. Steps that may be small or sometimes more significant, but together they all add up to great things. Regular monitoring, assessments and statistics in this regard are all part of the daily routine in the Mayrhofen Mountains in Zillertal.
Mayrhofner Bergbahnen AG is a key company in the region, committed to meeting future challenges while taking responsibility for the climate, natural environment, and living space. Its sustainable efforts help safeguard the foundations of existence, contributing to the preservation of a social structure in which people can thrive economically.
OUR PLEDGE
Consistent integration of sustainability into our corporate strategy.
Continuous improvement of energy efficiency in the skiing and hiking area
Careful treatment of nature, especially flora and fauna
Constant emphasis on regionality
OUR GOALS
To establish sustainable thoughts and actions as a core principle of our values
To raise awareness of the importance of sustainability among ourselves and fellow human beings
To take small steps towards accepting more responsibility for our region
SLOPE AND SNOW MANAGEMENT
When building ski slopes, terrain optimization, water drainage, retention basins and the recultivation of disturbed areas are key to ensuring ecological compatibility and safety.
In summer, ski slopes are maintained through fertilization and mulching to support healthy vegetation.
State-of-the-art snowmaking technology ensures maximum efficiency. Five reservoirs with a combined capacity of 470,000 m³ of drinking-quality water allow us to take full advantage of cold periods. We produce maximum snow with minimal water and energy use.
A specialized weather forecast for our ski area provides temperature and wet-bulb data to optimize snowmaking planning.
Monitoring includes snow production planning and consumption tracking at tapping points for efficient resource use.
Our snow groomers use GPS-based fleet management and fully automated snow depth measurement to ensure consistent slope coverage. Ongoing driver training helps optimize fuel consumption.
We also conduct field tests with snow cannons to maximize input-output performance.
ENERGY MANAGEMENT
We cover 100% of our electricity needs with renewable energy – mostly from local hydropower.
A customized software system monitors and controls our electricity loads and consumption in real time.
Our first photovoltaic system was installed in 2013. Today, we have approx. 300 kWp in place – enough to power 85 single-family homes annually. Additional PV locations are under review.
Three of our largest buildings (Penkenbahn mountain station, Ahornbahn mountain station, and administration building) are heated with sustainable wood pellets.
MOBILITY MANAGEMENT
In winter, the Zillertal Superskipass, and in summer, the Zillertal Activ Card, include free public transport for guests – also valid for staff commuting.
Our extensive ski bus network and summer shuttle buses help significantly reduce individual car traffic in the region.
For a CO₂-free arrival and departure, guests can book Superskipass combo tickets with offers from the Austrian Federal Railways.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Our waste management concept – developed by our waste officer – includes sorting systems and regular cleanup campaigns.
Ecological project support covers reforestation, compensation areas, gentle interventions (e.g., replanting sods and shrub heaths), and pond relocations.
The E-Trial course offers an eco-friendly leisure activity.
Long-term partnerships with local suppliers reflect responsibility, strengthen the region, and conserve resources.
