Snow has an extremely high albedo, up to 95%, which means that a huge amount of sunlight falling on the snow is reflected back into space instead of warming the planet. Without snow cover, the ground absorbs about four to six times more solar energy. Snow cover helps regulate the Earth's surface temperature, and once the snow melts, the water helps fill rivers and reservoirs in many regions of the world. Altogether, mountain meltwater and runoff account for more than 50 percent of the world's fresh water supply. Melted snow accounts for 70-80% of the total water used in large alpine power plants. Snow is useful for agriculture because it acts as an insulating layer, protects flora and fauna, affects biogeochemical processes, ecosystems and climate. Also, earnings from recreational winter activities are extremely significant. Sustainable development in the context of snow means treating this resource in a way that ensures its availability for current and future generations, while simultaneously taking into account ecological, economic and social aspects.