The British-Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and SPIRIT Slovenia invite you to a Tea with Reason event on the future of winter sports and climate resilience in Slovenia, taking place alongside the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup in Planica.
Slovenia has long been recognised for its excellence in winter sports, home to world-class athletes, passionate fans, and institutions that have helped shape skiing’s global heritage. The country’s mountainous regions are central to its identity, tourism, and local economies, with destinations such as Kranjska Gora, Planica, and Pokljuka symbolising both national pride and international visibility.
Yet, climate change is already altering the rhythm of Slovenia’s winters. Shorter snow seasons, rising temperatures, and the growing reliance on artificial snow are creating economic and logistical pressures for ski resorts, event organisers, and communities whose livelihoods depend on winter tourism. According to local climate analyses, the number of snow days in the Alpine region has declined significantly over recent decades, posing an existential challenge to the long-term sustainability of winter sports in Slovenia and across the Alps.
This brings not only environmental uncertainty but also financial, reputational, and social risks for those who have built and supported Slovenia’s winter sports ecosystem, from equipment manufacturers and hospitality providers to insurers, investors, and municipalities.
Attendance at the event is free of charge; however, prior registration is required via this link. Registration is open until 19 March or until all available places are filled.
Participants will also have the opportunity to attend the men’s ski jumping qualifications, which will take place ahead of the official start of Tea with Reason. Registered guests will receive detailed practical information in advance of the event. Please note that the event will be held in English.
Program
10:00 – 11:30 | Qualifications Viewing (Men Ski Jumping)
11:30 | Tea with Reason begins
11:30 – 11:45 | Opening Remarks
11:45 – 12:10 | Expert Keynote: The Climate Outlook for Slovenia’s Winter Season
An overview of regional climate trends, their impact on snow reliability, the accelerated melting of glaciers and related ice dynamics, and what these changes mean for tourism, infrastructure, and local communities.
12:10 – 13:00 | Panel Discussion: The Future of Winter Sports – Building Climate Resilience in the Slovenian Alps
A discussion among representatives from sports, business, finance, insurance, and tourism on how rising temperatures and reduced snowfall are reshaping Slovenia’s winter sports ecosystem; the economic and social impacts on ski resorts, local communities, and national sporting traditions; innovations in infrastructure and equipment to enhance resilience; the role of finance and insurance in managing climate risks and supporting adaptation; and public-private collaboration to sustain Slovenia’s reputation as a leading winter sports nation.
Moderator: Maja Ratej, Science Journalist at Val 202
13:00 – 14:00 | Lunch and Networking
Chapter Zero Slovenia