Skistar re-establishes vegetation in a steep mountain environment - with support from Ecogain. When landowners raised the need to improve the visual environment and strengthen biodiversity on the Störtloppet ski slope on Åreskutan, Skistar initiated restoration measures. To ensure that the efforts produced the best possible results, they chose to partner with Ecogain.
SkiStar's sustainability goals behind the initiative
Åreskutan has long been a center for winter sports, but in recent years summer tourism has also increased significantly. With more year-round visitors, the need to look after the visual experience and ecological health of the area has become more apparent - especially in the sensitive landscape around the cable car and the steep downhill ski run.
The area is characterized by blasted rock slopes, steep terrain and heavy water runoff, which leads to erosion and the removal of fine-grained material. SkiStar's work on sustainability issues, where they follow the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), formed the basis for the desire to act proactively.
Ecogain's role in the restoration project
Ecogain was engaged to produce a feasibility study to identify the measures required to re-establish vegetation and reduce erosion. With extensive experience in ecological restoration, research and site-specific methods, Ecogain was able to deliver a strategy that both optimized the chances of good results and minimized the risk of negative environmental effects.
Strategy for ecological restoration
In consultation with Skistar's in-house sustainability expertise, it was decided that trial areas would be constructed to test different methods in practice. Ecogain also recommended measures to manage water runoff - to reduce the risk of fine-grained material being transported away - and the management of blasted rock by crushing and crushing, to create better conditions for plant establishment.
Monitoring and long-term restoration in stages
The project is long-term and will be followed up in stages. Ecogain has developed a monitoring program and contributes ongoing interim reports as the restoration measures are implemented.
Restoration plan for Störtloppspisten on Åreskutan
By combining ecological expertise with strategic reporting, Ecogain has helped Skistar to identify feasible solutions for the restoration of a very complex mountain environment. Today, Skistar and Ecogain continue to work together to develop a clear plan for continued restoration, which both benefits local biodiversity and contributes to long-term sustainable development - for the mountain, for visitors and for the company.
How the project contributes to sustainable land use and social benefits
The project not only creates ecological values - such as re-established vegetation, enhanced biodiversity and improved ecosystem services - but also contributes to a more climate-resilient landscape. By reducing erosion and stabilizing the soil in a complex mountain environment, robustness against future effects of climate change is increased.
At the same time, the measures strengthen the visual experience and accessibility, which benefits both the tourism industry and local community development all year round. For clients, this means sustainable solutions with broad benefits - for nature, people and the long-term goals of the business.
Åreskutan restoration attracts media interest
The project has been featured in both local and national media. Below are some examples of how the collaboration between SkiStar and Ecogain has been recognized.
- SVT News Jämtland: Unique project on Åreskutan - vegetation is brought back to damaged mountain
- Östersunds Posten: Unique initiative on Åreskutan: "Must be patient"
- SVT Morgon studion: Feature on the restoration project in Åre (no longer available online)
