Deniz Branke

During our mountain adventures, our high-altitude tours - in summer and winter - always take us to the icy glacier regions that are permanently covered in snow. According to the Fauna-Flora-Habitat Directive (FFH Directive), these areas belong to habitat type 8240 "permanent glaciers", which is described as "high alpine zones permanently covered by snow or ice". An extremely inhospitable place - and yet we can certainly speak of a habitat here.

The market for outdoor clothing is booming. This is understandable, as our equipment accompanies us on many mountain adventures. However, this is precisely why it is worth taking a sober look at the origin of the materials, how they are produced and what impact they have. Issues such as animal welfare, resource conservation and climate protection should not be "fun brakes", but are part of a responsible approach to our environment. Sustainability does not mean doing without, but making conscious choices. If you are out and about in the mountains, you can also make sustainable choices when buying. And no, this is not about doing without and pointing fingers, this is about buying and using wisely!

The magic words "winter opening" and "start of the season" are enough to make winter sports fans' hearts beat faster. The marketing departments of the ski resorts are broadcasting dreamy winter landscapes and snowy backdrops on all channels. Everything is open again! Optimism is spreading: Winter is here! Skis and snowboards are taken out of the cellar and freshly waxed in anticipation. And then it's time to head up the mountain!