Sustainability in Pontedilegno-Tonale
Sustainability in Pontedilegno-Tonale means enjoying the mountains while taking care of their natural resources and the people who call this place home. Renewable energy, the protection of the Presena Glacier, responsible forest and water management, and sustainable mobility are just some of the ways the area is looking towards the future.
But caring for the mountains also means making them accessible to everyone, supporting local communities and investing in services and infrastructure that improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors.
It's an ongoing journey built on projects, investment and tangible results, with the aim of helping Pontedilegno-Tonale thrive while preserving its connection to the land and protecting it for future generations.
The Four Pillars of Sustainability
Energy, the environment, people and local development: four pillars supporting the future of Pontedilegno-Tonale.
Energy sustainability: We generate more than four times the electricity consumed in the area, thanks to our hydroelectric power plants and a 78 km district heating network fuelled by forestry waste.
Environmental sustainability: 96% of local forests, covering more than 10,750 hectares, are PEFC-certified for sustainable forest management. Ongoing efforts also focus on protecting the Presena Glacier and increasing recycling rates.
Accessibility and social sustainability: Barrier-free facilities, Neveplast slopes for monoski and dualski users, Chair Stations that allow independent access to higher altitudes, inclusive trails, and over €5.8 million invested in young people and the local community.
Economic sustainability: Almost €45 million invested over three years in environmental protection, energy efficiency, modern infrastructure and services for residents and visitors.
Did You Know? We Generate More Renewable Energy Than We Consume
In Pontedilegno-Tonale, clean energy comes directly from the power of Alpine streams. Our hydroelectric power plants meet the area's entire electricity demand and feed surplus energy into the national grid, generating revenue that is reinvested in public works and local services.
Heating homes and accommodation facilities is also made more sustainable thanks to a 78-kilometre underground district heating network that makes use of locally sourced forestry waste. This circular, forward-thinking model transforms local resources into heat and comfort, with a very low environmental impact.
Discover the story behind this project through facts, images and fascinating insights in our Did You Know? feature.
Protecting the Presena Glacier
The Presena Glacier is a precious yet fragile natural resource, increasingly affected by climate change. That's why, since 2008, we have covered its most vulnerable areas with geotextile sheets during the summer months, reducing snow and ice melt by around 50%.
Protecting the glacier also means understanding how it is changing. Over the years, the project has been supported by monitoring activities and scientific research, including studies by MUSE exploring its possible future evolution.
It's an ongoing challenge: the protective sheets can slow melting, but they cannot stop climate change.
A Mountain to Enjoy, for Everyone
The mountains are a shared treasure and should be accessible to everyone who wants to experience them. That's why we've introduced special Neveplast tracks and Chair Station systems on the Pontedilegno-Tonale gondola lift, allowing people who use monoski and dualski equipment to board safely and independently.
Our commitment to accessibility extends to dedicated services and routes, making it easier for people with different needs to enjoy the area. These efforts have earned Pontedilegno-Tonale recognition from the Italian Mountain Tourism Observatory (JFC) as one of Italy's ski resorts most committed to accessibility.
