Skiers, being dependent on snow for their fun, are more aware than most of the effects of global warming - shrinking glaciers mean less snow. So it should come as no surprise that housebuilders are increasingly developing in a sustainable manner in an effort to appeal to eco-sensitive snow bunnies as well as to preserve the natural environment for future generations’ benefit. Here are several good examples…
France
Developer Sarl le Globe is combining luxury with eco-consideration to create luxury apartments and mainsonettes at Le Clos de la Croix Blanche in Chamonix. The properties are timber-frame construction sourced from a European sustainable forest, photovoltaic panels, grey water recycling and rainwater harvesting systems have been fitted. Recycling is encouraged and car access is limited. Prices start from €1.55m (£1.25m).
The developer’s environmental initiatives have been recognised with a commended kite mark by www.whatgreenhome.com. A spokesperson said: “Le Clos de la Croix Blanche is a fine example of where the developer has considered the environmental impact of his actions and not shirked his responsibility for building sustainably. The commended kite mark is hard won and well deserved in this case.”
In the Chamonix/Mont Blanc area, Avoriaz is one of the original local ski resorts, first developed four decades ago. South facing, and at an elevation of 1800m, Avoriaz is located in the middle of a ski bowl, “portes du soleil”, that links France and Switzerland. Now, the resort with 650kms of ski tracks is being upgraded and redeveloped to include 570 spacious new apartments with spectacular views down the Morzine Valley.
The car-free resort has a strong environmental charter and a declared aim is to achieve 20% of energy from renewable sources in the new homes being built. Construction waste will be minimized as the developer has committed to a “charter for green building sites” pilot project carried out within the framework of partnership with WWF-France. Properties can be purchased for personal use or as an investment vehicle, under the residence de tourisme scheme. Guaranteed rental incomes range from 2.8 to 3.5% dependant on use. Freehold apartment prices start from €207,000.
Austria
French developers are far from alone when considering the environmental implications of development. Jodi Venner and her husband have pioneered one of the most sustainable projects built in central Europe to date at St Martin Chalets, Lungau in Austria. The couple’s determination to build to a high level of sustainability has seen it recognised with an excellent kite mark, the highest possible, by whatgreenhome.com.
A zero-carbon development, the core concept at St. Martin Chalets is a highly efficient vegetable oil combined heat and power (CHP) unit that guarantees clean, green electricity and heat supply. The chalets are being built using natural, untreated timber from the region’s sustainably managed forests, and water is drawn from a private spring and is recycled. Prices start from €321,950 (£261,000).
Canada
Outside Europe, Three Sisters Mountain Village in Canmore, Alberta, western Canada, is home to an international standard Nordic [cross-country] ski centre. High quality skiing is to be found at Banff, a 30-minute drive from Canmore. Eco-initiatives at the resort include a reduction in the resort’s density by 50 per cent to enhance the natural environment and in doing so create more green space and land for wildlife.
Properties available at Three Sisters Mountain Village, include apartments with prices from CAD $418,900 (approx. £217,975) for one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment. The homes for sale have sustainable features that include the use of local timber and stone, sheep’s wool insulation and water conservation practices. The Village has been awarded a whatgreenhome.com excellent kite mark.
