For elite cross-country skier Julia Kern, the reality of climate change is stark. She observes firsthand how warming winters are dramatically reshaping her sport, with a noticeable shrinking of natural snowpacks. Many ski areas now rely on snowmaking just to operate, a clear sign of changing conditions.

Kern describes race seasons marred by unusually warm, slushy conditions, where athletes sometimes compete in T-shirts. These midwinter thaws often lead to icy, difficult terrain once temperatures drop again, impacting both safety and competition. Beyond the ski trails, climate change affects her offseason training too. Last year, Canadian wildfire smoke caused such poor air quality in her Vermont home that outdoor workouts became impossible for weeks.

This personal experience has motivated Kern to act. Recognizing the privilege of her platform, she's become a vocal advocate for environmental action. Alongside other top athletes, she's urging international sports organizations to phase out sponsorships from fossil fuel companies, a crucial step towards aligning sports with climate goals. Furthermore, Kern and her fellow Olympians plan to meet with elected officials in Washington, D.C., to advocate for stronger climate solutions, underscoring the urgent need for collective action to protect our planet and the future of winter sports. Her advocacy highlights how critical it is to embrace sustainable practices now to combat global warming and preserve the natural environments we cherish.