The original interview appeared on POW Germany's website in German. The text has been edited for clarity.
Aline Bock, snowboarder and member of POW Germany's Athlete Alliance. She's a Freeride World Tour winner and she's also someone who talks about climate protection measures, both big and small. In this interview, she talks about how she finds her motivation to tackle not only steep slopes but also the climate crisis. Her motto: "As an athlete and filmmaker, I travel a lot. But doing nothing is not an option for me."
Aline, you love the snow and the mountains. What fascinates you most about them?
In the mountains, I feel (sometimes, not always) somehow free. When freeriding, for example, it's not about always riding the most difficult line. Quite the opposite, I simply want to be outdoors, feel the cold air, and experience nature. That gives me an incredible amount of energy.
What motivated you to become part of the POW Germany Athlete Alliance?
Because on my travels, I've experienced how beautiful, and also how fragile, our natural world is. The changes are particularly evident in the mountains. At some point, it became clear: I didn't want to use my voice solely for my sport. POW provides me with a great platform for that. Together, we can achieve more, and above all, there's the opportunity for exchange, including critical feedback. It was and remains important to me to reflect on myself and my actions.
POW Germany advocates the principle of imperfect advocacy, the idea that you don't have to be perfect yourself to be effective in climate protection. How do you personally deal with this contradiction?
Nobody lives perfectly. Least of all me. I try to look at things honestly and keep asking myself: what can I do better?
What have you personally changed to reduce your ecological footprint or increase your ecological handprint*?
I use things longer and plan trips better. That often works, but not always. And if a film, a lecture, or a conversation inspires someone to take action, that's worth far more than just my own small footprint.
*This concept does not capture how many greenhouse gases someone still causes, but how many they have already avoided, either through behaviour, political engagement, or professional actions in decision-making positions.
How do you contribute to greater climate protection besides supporting POW Germany? Do you have any specific tips for everyday life?
Buy less new stuff, flea markets are great! Repair things, buy local, and if possible, take the train or bike instead of the car. And above all: talk to each other. Climate protection doesn't always have to sound like deprivation.
What advice would you give to others in the outdoor community who want to get started right away and do more for climate protection?
Start small and don't expect to do everything perfectly. We spend a lot of time outdoors and see firsthand what changes. With that comes a responsibility. Use your voice, network, and bring others along. Many small steps can achieve a great deal.
What gives you hope?
The younger generation. I see more and more young people, athletes, and companies taking responsibility. And of course, my children. I want them to experience the mountains the way I do. That's why it's worth protecting nature. Times three! 😉
