Last season Whistler Blackcomb took us through a titillating tour of their past as they celebrated the resort’s golden anniversary. We learned of the roots and celebrated the icons and legends that made Whistler Blackcomb the figure that they are today. With a nod to their history, the resort now looks toward the years to come.
Since the ski and snowboard industry is faced with uncertainties themed around the environment, participation and safety concerns, Whistler Blackcomb introduces The Big Picture Documentary Series and looks to uncover the issues threatening the longevity of ski resorts.
The four-part documentary series kicks off with an environmental spin asking “Is our thirst for adventure threatening our environment?” The episode commences a discussion with Mountain Planning and Environmental Resource Manager at Whistler Blackcomb, Arthur De Jong as well as Climate Activist and Professional Snowboarder, Marie-France Roy around the internal conflict that skiers and snowboarders are faced with by enjoying outdoor recreation but by doing so, may be negatively impacting the environment. The series goes on to explore topics such as children being consumed by technology with part two, “What if kids stopped playing outside?”, safety concerns in part three, “Is the pull of the backcountry pushing our limits?” and ultimately concludes with the looming question of “What is the future of ski resorts?”.
Each episode invites an intriguing dialogue and is delivered with stunning cinematography from around the resort. All four episodes of The Big Picture Documentary Series can be viewed at www.whistlerblackcomb.com/bigpicture as of September 27th, 2016.
Whistler Blackcomb has already seen the first signs of snow and are due to open for their 51st winter season on November 24th, 2016.
Photo credit – Robin O’Neill