Earth Day 2023: The role of sport in promoting sustainability
Earth Day, celebrated on 22 April each year, is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on our relationship with the planet and the actions we can take to protect our places of play for generations to come.
While the sports industry has come a long way in recognising the role it can play in promoting sustainability, there is always more we can do. Here are some key tips and strategies:
Reducing our carbon footprint: The sports industry is responsible for significant carbon emissions, from travel to and from events to energy use in facilities. Organisations can reduce their carbon footprint by, turning off lights when not in use (both indoor and outdoor), encouraging the use of public transportation, switching to renewable energy, and promoting eco-friendly practices.
SEA MEMBER LEADING BY EXAMPLE: The MCG has turned green, becoming the first major stadium in Australia to run on 100 percent renewable power. Read more.
Conserving water: Water is a precious resource. By implementing water conservation strategies, such as using low-flow taps and toilets, and adopting drought-resistant landscaping, sporting organisations can conserve water and reduce their impact on the environment.
SEA MEMBER LEADING BY EXAMPLE: Tennis Victoria encourages the use of water tanks and provides guidelines on this. Read more.
Using sustainable materials: From uniforms to equipment, we can use sustainable materials to reduce our environmental impact. Materials such as recycled polyester and bamboo can be used in place of traditional materials to provide better environmental outcomes. Sporting organisations can also implement uniform and equipment recycling programs.
SEA MEMBER LEADING BY EXAMPLE: Frankston District Netball Association has implemented a successful and continuing uniform recycling program. Find out more.
Reducing waste: With some planning and preparation, sporting organisations of all sizes can take action to reduce waste and encourage recycling at events.
SEA MEMBER LEADING BY EXAMPLE: City of Melbourne Bowls Club’s mission is to reduce waste going to landfill by 70%. Read more.
But it’s not all up to larger organisations and sports clubs. As individuals, we also have a responsibility to take action to promote sustainable practices. Here are some steps we can all take:
Use public transportation or carpool to sports events to reduce emissions.
Bring your own reusable water bottle to sporting events to reduce waste.
Celebrate sporting organisations that prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
Encourage sporting organisations to implement sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy and reducing waste.
Support environmental organisations, such as SEA, that work to promote sustainability in sports.
As we celebrate Earth Day 2023, let's remember that sport and the environment are inextricably linked. While the industry has made progress to protect our places of play, there is still much to do. By making changes at the organisational level and taking action as individuals, we can all do more {for the world} with less {footprint}.
If you or your sporting organisation needs help on your sustainability journey, join SEA to tap into our global network of industry leaders and change-makers.
