Mayrhofner Bergbahnen & Sustainability

Bearing responsibilty for our homeland

Our homeland and the mountains are close to our hearts. Nature is a precious asset that we use responsibly. As one of Austria’s largest ski and hiking areas, we set clear goals for the mindful stewardship of our mountain environment – step by step, through measures that together create a meaningful impact. Analyses, measurements and statistics are part of the daily routine on the Mayrhofen mountains in the Zillertal.

As a leading company in the region, Mayrhofner Bergbahnen AG faces the challenges of the future and takes responsibility for the climate, nature and living environment. This commitment to sustainability strengthens the long-term foundations for a stable and economically successful 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.

• Our buses run on HVO diesel – a fossil-free, synthetic fuel produced through hydrogenation of renewable vegetable oils and animal fats. Increasingly made from waste and residual materials, it reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 90% and can be used in existing diesel engines without technical modifications, as its chemical structure is similar to conventional diesel fuel and therefore shares the same technical properties.

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.