Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility at FIS

FIS Mainau Manifesto
The FIS Council manifesto has developed from the traditions of the Green Charter of the Mainau Island and its initiator, Count Lennart Bernadotte. For many decades this Charter has supported the protection of nature and the environment for the benefit of humankind. The manifesto was unanimously approved at the 39th FIS Congress in Rio de Janeiro in 1994 and was presented by FIS President Marc Hodler to Countess Sonja Bernadotte on 20th October 1994 on the Isle of Mainau (GER).

Resolution
Skiing is enjoyed by many millions of people throughout the world as, above all, a recreational sport. It allows those participating to carry out an incredible variety of movements using simple methods, whether on skis or a snowboard.

At a time of year when sunshine is rare, the skier leaves behind gloomy winter days in the city and finds enjoyment in the open country. Bright light and fresh air, as well as physical activity within a beautiful landscape, are the basis for people’s enjoyment of skiing and for its health benefits.

Skiing is a shared, communal experience whose social aspects are important for families, groups and clubs. It offers young people a taste for action and so provides a high educational value.

As a result of the various international competitions and ski resorts situated all over the world, skiing helps develop close ties between people and nations.

Thanks to skiing and its 100 years of tradition, a specific cultural heritage has evolved. This has led in numerous countries, under different geographic, economic and social conditions, to developments notable for their individualism and unique values.

Skiing forms the basis for tourism in mountain areas and constitutes an essential factor in the economic survival of the people who live there. In effect, tourism provides the basis for social security and economic wealth in many mountainous regions and plays a role in reducing migration towards cities.

Skiing is carried out within a natural environment. Its impact upon this environment and landscape can be serious, as is the case with all exploitation and use of the earth’s resources.