Glacier protection with geotextiles – A sustainable solution for the future

Innovative technology for glacier preservation and winter tourism security
Glacial melt is one of the greatest challenges of climate change, with profound impacts on nature and winter tourism. Naue has developed GlacierProtect, a pioneering solution that not only advances glacier protection but also helps preserve snow reserves in ski resorts. As part of the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025, Naue is sending a strong message. Learn more about this environmentally friendly geotextile that benefits both glaciers and the long-term sustainability of winter tourism.
Sustainable innovation for glacier protection and the strengthening of tourist infrastructure
Glaciers are vital. They regulate the climate, play a crucial role in biodiversity, and safeguard groundwater reserves. In many regions, agriculture depends on meltwater for irrigation, while in Europe and worldwide, these icy giants serve as key tourism hubs and significant economic assets.
Scientists warn: Even if global warming is successfully limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius, around half of all mountain glaciers will have disappeared by the end of the century. Glacier protection is both environmental protection and a forward-looking investment in economic stability. Biodegradable geotextiles play a crucial role in this effort.
Glacial melt threatens nature and tourism
Glaciers and ski resorts represent invaluable natural capital that must be preserved for future generations. They not only offer ecological, recreational, and cultural benefits but also serve as essential resources for climate stability and sustainable tourism.
Melting glaciers are not only altering landscapes and regional ecosystems but are also jeopardising the snow reliability of ski resorts.
Shorter winter seasons, rising costs for artificial snow production, and even the potential loss of entire tourism infrastructures pose severe threats. Many regions face a dual challenge – ensuring the survival of tourism while protecting nature.
Environmental protection as an economic factor – Opportunities through modern covering solutions
Glaciers worldwide are under severe threat. Just to name a few examples in Europe: The Swiss Matterhorn region, Sölden in Austria with the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers, the ski area around the Mont Blanc massif, and the French resort of Val d’Isère are all experiencing significant ice loss. Many well-known ski destinations are actively seeking sustainable alternatives for winter tourism.
Biodegradable geotextiles support environmental conservation while enabling eco-friendly glacier protection and snow farming. They are more than just a technical aid; they are a symbol of hope for preserving glaciers – and they help secure jobs in tourism-dependent regions.
Naue GlacierProtect – Environmentally friendly geotextile with high reflective capability
Naue GlacierProtect is an innovative and environmentally friendly geotextile developed by the Naue Group. It has been specifically designed to address the pressing issue of accelerated glacier and snow melt caused by climate change.
The material consists of Naue Secutex® Green, a nonwoven fabric made exclusively from renewable and biodegradable raw materials. It reflects 75 per cent of sunlight, thereby lowering the surface temperature of glaciers and slowing ice melt.
This durable product is easy to handle and suitable for use in high-alpine environments. Naue GlacierProtect not only contributes to glacier preservation but also helps to protect water reserves and stabilise ecosystems.
Biodegradable – Reusable – Environmentally efficient
Naue GlacierProtect stands out due to three key benefits – biodegradability, reusability, and snow conservation, ensuring environmentally friendly efficiency.
Any wear or residual fibres from Naue GlacierProtect – for example, when fibres freeze into the snow – are naturally broken down into organic substances and metabolised by naturally occurring microorganisms.
At the end of the season, the geotextiles are rolled up and stored for reuse. This method allows ski resorts to conserve natural snow and start the winter season earlier.
The economic importance of Naue GlacierProtect in securing snow conditions for winter tourism is immense, as snow-reliable ski resorts remain in high demand. Additionally, this innovative geotextile represents a long-term investment in environmental protection.
Securing the future of winter sports – Snow farming and the protection of high-traffic areas
Naue GlacierProtect is also used in snow farming – the collection and preservation of snow. The rough surface of the nonwoven fabric reduces wind suction. Additionally, ballast-filled bags secure the covered areas against wind forces. When the fabric freezes onto the snow, the risk of it being lifted by wind suction is further reduced.
Furthermore, Naue GlacierProtect provides a cost-effective and reliable solution for the eco-friendly protection of heavily used areas around ski lift facilities. In particular, it ensures that entry and exit zones remain stable and functional throughout the winter season, protecting them from harsh weather conditions.
This not only lowers ongoing maintenance costs but also reduces future infrastructure expenses by extending the lifespan of these areas. In addition, Naue GlacierProtect allows for a nearly maintenance-free operation, contributing to both efficiency and sustainability.
Studies confirm effectiveness
Two years ago, Naue GlacierProtect, made from renewable raw materials, was first used for glacier protection. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness: A test in the Austrian Alps in 2022 showed a reduction in ice melt of approximately four metres over three summer months.
Naue GlacierProtect is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions in high-altitude environments, ensuring durability throughout its intended use.
Due to the low biological activity in glacier protection and snow farming applications, the product can be reused multiple times. However, if contamination levels are too high and significantly impair reflectivity, the geotextile should be replaced.
Used material can be composted, thermally processed, or covered with soil, as it is 100 per cent converted into biomass, CO₂, and water.
This geotextile, made from renewable raw materials, releases no harmful particles into the environment, making it safe for wildlife and local ecosystems.
It is certified for both home and industrial composting, as well as for biodegradation in water and soil. Additionally, it can serve as a valuable raw material for textile upcycling, supporting a closed-loop economy.
Naue GlacierProtect and the UN International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025
2025 has been declared the International Year of Glaciers by the United Nations. The message is clear: The world faces an urgent challenge in ensuring glacier protection. These majestic landscapes play a crucial role in regulating the climate, supplying freshwater, and preserving biodiversity.
Naue GlacierProtect is an example of how environmentally conscious innovation can help address urgent climate-related environmental problems. With a strong focus on end-of-life solutions and ecosystem preservation, it reinforces the Naue Group’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The material supports clean water (SDG 6), climate action (SDG 13), the conservation of biodiversity (SDG 15), and sustainable tourism (SDG 8).
The groundbreaking GlacierProtect product reflects Naue’s vision of a future where sustainability, innovation, and ecological responsibility go hand in hand. CEO Ralph-Friedrich Peter summarises the company’s mission: “We are continuously developing innovative solutions to protect vital ecosystems. Glaciers are irreplaceable resources, not only admired for their beauty but also representing a form of natural capital whose value for future generations cannot be overstated.”