What Advances in Human Performance Have We Made Amidst Alarming Climate Change?

Ed Leigh is celebrating his 20th year as co-presenter of Ski Sunday, which returns on 4 January at 17:30 GMT on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. His tenure has witnessed significant changes in winter sports, particularly the rise of female athletes, environmental challenges, and technological advancements in broadcasting.

Last updated: 04 January 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

This winter marks a notable milestone for Ed Leigh as he embarks on his 20th year with Ski Sunday. The show, which first aired in 1978, continues to evolve, reflecting changes in winter sports, particularly the increasing prominence of women in skiing. As the programme prepares for its new season, it also grapples with the realities of climate change affecting winter sports globally. Leigh’s insights highlight the juxtaposition of progress against environmental challenges, making this season particularly poignant for viewers and fans of winter sports.

Key takeaways

Ed Leigh's 20-year journey on Ski Sunday showcases significant shifts in winter sports.
The rise of female athletes like Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Schiffrin is a key highlight.
Climate change poses a serious threat to winter sports, with alarming glacier loss reported.
Technological advances have transformed sports broadcasting, including drone footage.
Ski Sunday remains a family tradition, appealing to multiple generations of viewers.

Timeline: how we got here

To understand the evolution of Ski Sunday and the broader context of winter sports, here’s a brief timeline of key events:

1976: Franz Klammer's gold medal performance at the Winter Olympics inspires the creation of Ski Sunday.
1978: Ski Sunday officially launches, offering winter sports coverage to UK audiences.
2006: Ed Leigh joins the Ski Sunday team, marking the beginning of his influential career in sports broadcasting.
2010: Lindsey Vonn becomes the first woman to win the overall World Cup title, paving the way for future female athletes.
2020: Reports reveal that over a third of glacier mass has been lost in the last 25 years, raising alarms about climate change impacts.
2026: Ski Sunday begins its 49th year, with Ed Leigh reflecting on two decades of change.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As Ski Sunday kicks off its new season, viewers can expect enhanced coverage of winter sports, particularly with a focus on women's skiing and the impact of climate change on the sport. This season promises to highlight not only competitive achievements but also the cultural shifts within winter sports.

What was already established

The 20-year history of Ski Sunday under Ed Leigh has been marked by significant advancements in women's sports representation. The show has also seen technological innovations in broadcasting, such as drone footage and improved camera technology, transforming how audiences experience winter sports.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The changing landscape of winter sports, particularly the increased visibility of female athletes, resonates with UK viewers. Families can engage with the sport through Ski Sunday, fostering a love for winter sports across generations. However, the environmental challenges facing these sports may affect participation and access to snowy venues.

Businesses and jobs

As winter sports adapt to climate change, businesses in related sectors, including tourism and sporting goods, may need to pivot. The rise of female participation in sports is also likely to create new opportunities and markets within the industry, driving innovation and growth.

Policy and regulation

The ongoing climate crisis is prompting discussions around sustainability in winter sports. The UK government, alongside various organisations, may look into policies that support both environmental initiatives and the promotion of winter sports, ensuring that future generations can enjoy these activities.

Numbers that matter

25 years: The period over which more than a third of glacier mass has been lost.
1.5°C: The best-case scenario temperature rise by 2041 that could result in the loss of 2,000 glaciers in Europe.
4,000: The worst-case scenario glacier loss projection by 2055 with a temperature rise of 4°C.
20 years: Ed Leigh's experience on Ski Sunday, marking a significant era in winter sports broadcasting.
49: The number of years Ski Sunday will celebrate in 2026, reflecting its longevity in UK television.

Definitions and jargon buster

Ski Sunday: A British television programme dedicated to winter sports, primarily skiing, that airs on BBC Two.
FPV (First-Person View): A type of drone footage that allows viewers to experience the action from an athlete's perspective.
Para-athletes: Athletes with disabilities competing in sports at various levels, including the Paralympics.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As Ski Sunday begins its new season, audiences can anticipate fresh content focusing on women's achievements and technological advancements in broadcasting. Viewers should watch for highlights of upcoming competitions and athlete profiles that exemplify the evolving nature of winter sports.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the coming months, the impact of climate change on winter sports will likely become more pronounced. Expect discussions around sustainability measures in the industry and how organisations like Protect Our Winters are advocating for change.

Signals to watch

Upcoming winter sports competitions and performances from Team GB athletes.
Reports on glacier mass loss and climate change impacts on skiing venues.
Initiatives and policies introduced to promote sustainability within winter sports.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with winter sports through family activities and Ski Sunday viewings.
Support climate action initiatives that work to preserve winter sports environments.
Stay informed about advancements in women's sports and celebrate female athletes' achievements.

Don’t

Don't overlook the importance of sustainability in enjoying winter sports.
Don't miss opportunities to introduce younger generations to skiing and snowboarding.

Checklist

Plan family outings to ski resorts that promote sustainability.
Follow Ski Sunday for updates on athlete performances and winter sports news.
Explore local winter sports events to support and participate in.
Educate yourself and others about the impacts of climate change on winter sports.
Encourage discussions about female representation in sports within your community.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the progress in women’s sports and technological advancements are noteworthy, the looming threat of climate change poses significant risks to the future of winter sports. Current projections regarding glacier loss are alarming and could dramatically alter the landscape of skiing and snowboarding. It is essential to approach these topics with a sense of urgency and advocacy for change within the industry.

Bottom line

Ed Leigh's reflections on his two decades with Ski Sunday highlight the show's evolution alongside significant cultural and environmental shifts. As viewers tune in this season, they will not only witness thrilling winter sports but also engage with the pressing issues of climate change and the rise of female athletes. The shared family experience of watching Ski Sunday continues to resonate, underscoring the programme's enduring appeal.

FAQs

What is Ski Sunday?

Ski Sunday is a British television programme that covers winter sports, especially skiing, airing on BBC Two. It has been a staple of winter sports broadcasting since 1978.

How has women's representation in winter sports changed?

In recent years, women’s representation in winter sports has significantly increased, with athletes like Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Schiffrin gaining prominence and achieving record-breaking performances.

What impact does climate change have on winter sports?

Climate change has led to a significant loss of glacier mass, which affects the availability and quality of skiing venues. This poses challenges for the future of winter sports and requires urgent action.