Les Roches-Blanches: a new chairlift with a low carbon footprint
What is a low-carbon, circular economy construction site?
A low-carbon, circular-economy building site is a construction approach that aims to reduce the environmental footprint by making the most of existing resources and limiting the impact of producing new materials.
Contrary to traditional methods, this type of project favors the reuse of infrastructure or materials already in use, giving them a second life while avoiding the intensive extraction of raw materials. This approach is in line with the principles of sustainability, where every stage of the project is designed to reduce waste, optimize resources and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
The circular economy thus enables us to transform what could have become waste into a useful resource, while adopting environmentally-friendly practices. The benefits of this approach include a significant reduction in ecological impactsa rational use of natural resources, and a concrete contribution to the fight against climate change.
Roches-Blanches chairlift
a responsible, forward-looking projectThe new Roches-Blanches chairlift, inaugurated in December 2024, meets the growing needs of skiers while anticipating environmental challenges.
Thanks to an approach based on re-use, 90% of raw materials were saved by using second-hand parts from other resorts. Only 10% of components are new, such as the cable or bolts, significantly reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the manufacture of this chairlift. These efforts have reduced CO₂ emissions by a factor of 10 compared with conventional construction.
The new chairlift, designed with POMA's expertise, has also reduced its environmental footprint by limiting the impact on flora and fauna.
The old lift, dating back to 1989, was also carefully dismantled to enable the materials to be reused or recycled almost entirely. In addition, the layout of the chairlift was optimized, and the number of towers reduced from 21 to 12, reducing visual impact and improving user comfort.
In terms of performance, the new disengageable seats, fitted with foam cushions, offer enhanced comfort while reducing ascent time from 12 minutes to just 5 minutes.
This modernization is part of an overall project to improve the customer experience, notably with the renovation of the Girarde chairlift, which serves high-altitude areas offering emblematic views of the Dent Parrachée and the Vanoise glaciers.
A worksite organized to limit impact
The installation of the Roches-Blanches chairlift was designed to respect local ecosystems. Work was planned to avoid sensitive periods, such as bird nesting, and the impact on flora and fauna was carefully controlled.
In addition, efforts have been made to integrate the landscape, although some aesthetic adjustments, such as the widening of the Flambeau trail, are planned for future seasons.
A sustainable vision for future generations
- The planned transformation of the Ramasse chairlift into a telecombi, combining cabins and seats to better meet user needs.
- Improved management of water resources, with greater snow production capacity thanks to the rational use of local resources, such as the Châtel EDF gallery.
- The creation of new accessible and panoramic trails, promoting a more immersive and sustainable experience for visitors.
- Ever more ecological and exemplary initiatives such as wood-fired heating.
Val Cenisa commitment to responsible tourism
With a view to sustainable development and tourism diversification, Val Cenis imagines a future where activities are not limited to downhill skiing.
Projects such as a dedicated pedestrian cable car or a rail toboggan run could enhance the offering, providing year-round options for all visitor profiles.
Ski area energy management
Protecting flora and fauna
