"Studying environmental science clearly influenced how I snowboard"

© 2023 EPFL Alain Herzog

© 2023 EPFL Alain Herzog

Mathieu Schaer, an EPFL alumni and scientific collaborator at MétéoSwiss, is also a professional snowboarder who shows that mountain sports don’t have to be bad for the environment. Learn more about this athlete, who combines the thrill of adventure with a love of nature.


Schaer has been snowboarding for 14 years. He studied environmental science and engineering at EPFL, which gave him a fresh perspective on snow sports. For example, he’s against the use of helicopters, and he uses his own two legs to reach the tops of mountains – which he then hurtles down.

To go further:

Mathieu Schaer's conference at EPFL: The future of skiing in Switzerland: how to make winter sports more responsible?

EPFL organises various conferences and events throughout the year on topics related to sustainability. More information.