Innovative mountain railroads in Schladming-Dachstein How the Planai-Hochwurzen lifts are rethinking sustainability
They are among the most innovative mountain lifts in Europe: the Planai-Hochwurzen lifts show how state-of-the-art technology and environmental protection go hand in hand. In this blog, you can find out about the innovations behind them and how they are making your next day in the mountains more sustainable:
Three pillars for a future worth living
Good for the region. Good for tomorrow.
Here, sustainability is more than just a promise - it is lived practice. From green energy to regional value creation, we have been working for years to harmonize nature and experience. Commitment pays off, especially when it is long-term. So that future generations can also enjoy the beauty of the region.
The sustainability concept is based on a balanced interplay of ecological, social and economic measures:
- Ecology: photovoltaic systems, modern snow management, CO₂ reduction through HVO fuel and sustainable choice of materials and regional partnerships for new buildings.
- Social: Promoting employee satisfaction and partnerships based on diversity and equal opportunities, so that guests can also feel the commitment to social responsibility.
- Economic: Investments in innovation and regional value creation secure jobs and future viability.
Innovation meets closeness to nature:
One highlight is the Energy Crystal lighthouse project. The reopened mountain station of the Dachstein Glacier Lift partially covers its own energy requirements and visitors are interactively informed about climate change and its effects.
Environmentally friendly offers are also provided in the area of mobility: Hiking buses in summer, ski buses in winter, charging infrastructure for e-cars and combined tickets with ÖBB make it easier to travel without a car.
Sustainability as an experience:
Guests not only benefit from perfectly groomed slopes in winter and lush green alpine meadows in summer, but also from the good feeling of being part of responsible tourism.
Whether skiing, hiking or enjoying regional specialties - the region combines nature experiences with a conscious approach to the climate and environment.
Figures that impress:
- The use of HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) improves thecarbon footprint by up to 90% (for example, all snow groomers on the Planai, Hochwurzen and Galsterberg have been running on HVO since winter 2023/24).
- 321,000 kWh of electricity photovoltaic production in the 2023/24 financial year alone
- Over 500,000 passengers a year in hiking and ski buses
- Target by 2029: to cover16% of total electricity requirements through in-house generation with renewable energies
The Planai-Hochwurzen lifts show that winter sports and summer experiences can also be sustainable. Those who spend their vacation in Schladming-Dachstein not only experience the beauty of nature, but also support a destination that takes responsibility for future generations.
