In this episode of 《Earth Voices》, Irene and Fathan chat with Wanaka, a passionate advocate from Protect Our Winter (POW) Japan, to discuss their innovative campaign aimed at making Japan's ski resorts more sustainable. POW is dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts, particularly skiers and snowboarders, become active allies in the fight against climate change. Wanaka shares insights into her journey with POW Japan, the objectives of their campaign, and the challenges and successes they've encountered along the way.
Notes :
Introduction to Wanaka and POW Japan
- Wanaka's background as a skier and snowboarder from Kutchan, Hokkaido.
- POW Japan's mission and its connection to the global POW movement founded by American snowboarder Jeremy Jones in 2007.
Sustainable Resort Alliance Campaign
- The campaign's goals: increasing active allies, encouraging sustainable practices in ski towns, and advocating for legislative changes to reduce carbon emissions.
- Efforts to make ski resorts achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050, prioritize sustainability, educate staff, and engage with the community.
Challenges and Solutions
- The difficulties ski resorts face in adopting sustainable practices and how POW Japan supports them with education, workshops, and a collaborative platform.
- The importance of making the campaign accessible and understandable, and the lessons learned from feedback and participation levels.
Community Engagement and Support
- Success stories from the campaign, including public support and ski resorts joining the initiative.