04. The Syllabus: F. Sport and Sustainability Leadership
Fields Of Change: A Sustainability Handbook
Climate Action in Sport Climate action in sport is new, but on the rise - at all levels, and in all of the areas we have looked at so far in this handbook. Some key trends include: • Sustainable Venue Design and Operations: There is a growing emphasis on constructing and operat- ing sports venues with sustainability in mind. This includes utilising renewable energy sources, implementing ener- gy-efficient systems, and integrating green building practices such as LEED certification. • Carbon Neutrality and Reduction Targets: Many sports organisations are setting ambitious carbon neutrality and reduction targets to mitigate their environmental impact. This involves measuring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across various opera- tional areas, including transportation, energy consumption, and waste man- agement. • Promotion of Sustainable Transportation: Sports events are increasingly promoting sustainable transportation options such as public transit, cycling, and carpooling to reduce carbon emissions associated with travel to and from venues.
Emerging Trends There are some key emerging trends and factors which will shape the future of climate action in sport. Some examples could include:
Technologies :
Regulation :
Finance:
• Waste Reduction and Recycling Initiatives: Sports organisations are implementing waste reduction and recycling initiatives to minimise the amount of waste generated during events. This includes composting organic waste, reducing single-use plastics, and promoting recycling programs. • Engagement and Education: There is a growing emphasis on engaging fans, athletes, and stakeholders in climate action initiatives through education and awareness campaigns. Sports organisations are leveraging their platforms to educate audiences about the importance of environmental conservation and inspire action. • Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaboration between sports organisations, governing bodies, governments, and environmental organisations is becoming increasingly common to address climate change collectively. Partnerships facilitate knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and the development of innovative solutions.
A. Renewable energy. B. Sustainable fuels. C. Sensors and building
A. More grants for climate and green incentives. B. Growing inequalities - who has access to finance and funding? C. Revenue generation through sustainability initiatives - it enhances brand reputation, and can save money through energy conservation. D. Newer technologies are becoming cheaper.
A. Government policies at national, regional, and local level - whether specific to sport or for businesses/ organisations in general. B. Industry standards set by governing bodies. C. International agreements. D. Demands from partners. E. Demands from society - fans,
automation systems (energy management software). D. Sustainable materials and equipment: Innovations in sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics,
biodegradable polymers, and eco-friendly textiles.
professional, amateur and youth players, and peers.
A common theme in climate action in sport is collaboration. Sport can’t solve climate change or biodiversity loss on its own, but neither does it operate in a vacuum - sport can be a key player in broader coalitions across our economy and society working to make a better world. As such, collaboration is a common thread which runs through the different themes explored throughout this handbook.
Some examples might include:
• Infrastructure: working with a construction company; with a funding body to fund the project; a landscaping team to integrate biodiversity. • Carbon Reduction: working with a consultant with technical expertise; with a local university who might have relevant research or academic expertise. • Travel: liaising with local government to ensure public transport or active travel options are available; speaking with parents of participants of a youth programme to arrange carpooling.
• Waste: educating participants on how to avoid waste; checking recycling arrangements with local government; working with local NGOs and community groups to donate surplus clothes, equipment, or food. • Staff Training: partnering with a local university who can deliver education on sustainability; securing funding from
The Sport For Good sector is only beginning to engage with environmental sustainability and climate action, making this an exploratory field with immense potential. As a powerful agent of change, the sector is uniquely positioned to support communities most affected by the environmental crisis. Early field projects already demonstrate the sector's ability to drive transformative change. Now is the time to accelerate this momentum and fully harness the impact of sport in building a more sustainable future.
funders to provide training; connecting with other NGOs/Sport For Good organisations to share knowledge and best practice.
75
76
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator