Combined for Change Sustainability Tour

In the 2024/25 season, the efforts to make the Viessmann FIS Nordic Combined World Cup as sustainable as possible are set to have more impact than ever.

The Local Organizing Committees (LOCs) of the eight World Cup stages are joining the FIS #CombinedForChange Sustainability Tour, an opportunity for them to learn from each other’s initiatives and maximize their ability to organize ever more sustainable events.

By sharing expertise and results, the organizers will create a collective pool of knowledge on how to put together more sustainable events. The challenges we face today, particularly those related to the environment, are common to everyone, and so can be the solutions. Event organizers have been proactive in implementing impactful projects, and replicating these widely across snow sports can make a significant positive difference.

Combined for Change Award presented by Viessmann

At the end of the season, the FIS Combined for Change Award presented by Viessmann will recognize the most impactful initiative. The winner will be determined based on a voting process involving FIS Sustainability & Viessmann representatives, Local Organizing Committees (LOCs), athletes and fans. The winning LOC will receive a EUR 10,000 voucher for an intelligent climate and energy solution from Viessmann.

This award aims to support the event organizers in their efforts to create a positive impact for the climate and to highlight the projects contributing to sustainability in winter sports and beyond.

Voting Process

On April 8, 2025, a jury of FIS and Viessmann representatives evaluated the sustainability initiatives submitted by the LOCs of the Viessmann FIS Nordic Combined World Cup. Based on their impact, creativity, and scalability, the following top three initiatives were selected for the voting process:

1. Ruka, Finland – Snow Farming:

   Ruka addressed snow production challenges by combining snow farming and automated systems, reducing snowmaking energy consumption by 90%. This innovative approach sets a benchmark for balancing operational needs with environmental responsibility.

2. Schonach, Germany – Free Public Transport: Schonach's sustainability strategy included a CO₂-neutral heated waxing tent and integrated public transportation in ticketing to reduce the event's carbon footprint. The jury praised its focus on infrastructure, mobility, accessibility, and public engagement.

3. Otepää, Estonia – Green Ambassadors:

   Otepää's Green Ambassadors Program engaged trained volunteers to promote sustainable behaviors, significantly increasing recycling rates and environmental awareness. The initiative's focus on education and engagement created a lasting impact, serving as a model for other venues.

LOCs, Nordic Combined athletes and the public will each contribute 33.3% to the final decision.

Voting closed on Thursday 17 April at 23:59 CET. Thank you for your participation! The winner of the FIS Combined for Change Award presented by Viessmann will be announced on Friday 25 April.

Combined For Change Initiatives

Each LOC will showcase one sustainability activity carried out at their events, covering areas such as energy production, transport solutions, waste management, and community work.