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- Jan 26
- 3 min read

Addressing Climate Change Through Sport

Updated: Mar 4

Ian C Jones

Berkshire UK • 07469018888 Ian@newgatetrading.co.uk • LinkedIn

INTRODUCTION

Addressing climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our times, with the planet's mean temperature potentially rising significantly by 2100. The recent discussions at the Security Council and the COP26 conference highlight the urgency to transition from words to actions. Addressing Climate Change Through Sport, with its global appeal, can play a pivotal role in raising awareness, influencing behaviors, and reducing its carbon footprint.

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CHALLENGES: HOW SPORT AFFECTS AND IS AFFECTED BY CLIMATE CHANGE

Understanding the intricate relationship between sport and climate change is crucial. Unsustainable practices in sports contribute to emissions equivalent to a medium-sized country. Events like the Rio Olympics and Russia World Cup have left substantial carbon footprints, often underestimated. Simultaneously, rising temperatures impact sports events globally, affecting everything from winter Olympic host cities to tennis tournaments and football leagues.

OPPORTUNITIES: THE ROLE OF ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE THROUGH SPORT

Despite being a contributor and casualty of global warming, sports hold a unique position to be part of the solution. Its extensive social platform allows it to influence attitudes globally. Athletes and teams can serve as role models, leveraging their social status to educate and motivate communities. International initiatives like the UN's Sport for Climate Action Framework and the IOC's Sustainability Strategy are crucial in promoting climate action through sports.

INITIATIVES AT THE INTERNATIONAL LEVEL

The international community is increasingly recognising the potential of sports in addressing climate change. The IOC's Sustainability Strategy aims to make the games carbon-negative by 2030, setting a precedent for future host cities. Initiatives like Sport4Climate and the UN's Sport for Climate Action Framework provide systematic frameworks for climate action. COP26 included dedicated events discussing sports' role in climate action, emphasising the global commitment to this cause.

PUBLIC INITIATIVES AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL

Nations are also acknowledging the impact of sports on climate change. The United States government has undertaken federal initiatives, focusing on sustainable sports buildings and engaging professional athletes as sports envoys. Countries like Cape Verde, Palau, and Zambia are incorporating environmental sustainability in their sports infrastructure and activities.

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NON-GOVERNMENTAL AND PRIVATE INITIATIVES AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL

Non-governmental and private entities are taking significant steps towards sustainability in sports. Clubs like Bayer Leverkusen and Forest Green Rovers are leading the way with clean energy use and carbon-free stadiums. Universities, such as Stanford, are integrating sustainability into sports, educating student-athletes on environmental issues.

BARRIERS TO CHANGE

Despite the progress, barriers to change persist. Some commitments are perceived as greenwashing, lacking hard targets or comprehensive strategies. The conflict between reducing emissions and accepting sponsorships from fossil fuel-related industries poses a challenge. Insufficient data on carbon emissions and a lack of support from sports organisations hinder effective climate initiatives.

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CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

As urgency to address climate change grows, sports can be a significant part of the solution. The sports community, governments, and international organisations must commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Policymakers should incentivize sustainable sports and promote it as a tool for climate awareness. Collaborations across stakeholders are essential to implement effective measures, and robust data collection is crucial for informed decision-making.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can individual athletes contribute to combating climate change? Individual athletes can contribute by adopting sustainable practices in their personal and professional lives, raising awareness among their followers, and actively participating in climate advocacy initiatives.
What role do fans play in promoting environmental initiatives in sports? Fans can actively support environmental initiatives by adopting eco-friendly behaviors during sports events, spreading awareness in their communities, and holding sports organizations accountable for their sustainability efforts.
Are there specific examples of sports events adopting sustainable practices successfully? Yes, the Tokyo 2020 summer Olympics demonstrated sustainability efforts by using pre-existing buildings, renewable energy, and implementing a carbon offset program.
How can universities contribute to integrating sustainability into sports? Universities can offer courses on sustainability in athletics, create student organizations focused on environmental issues, and host events promoting eco-friendly practices in sports.
What steps can governments take to encourage sports organizations to be more sustainable? Governments can set policy frameworks, provide incentives for sustainable practices, and collaborate with international organizations to establish guidelines for sports organizations to reduce their carbon footprint.

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