Designing and implementing sustainability into sporting events
From reducing waste and emissions to conserving energy and water, the final episode of our webinar series delved into how to create environmentally responsible events, improve fan experience without compromising event management.
The final Sports Environment Alliance’s Beyond the Summit webinar series was ‘How to design and implement best practice sustainability into sporting events’.
During the webinar, we heard from:
• Andrew Sweet, Chief Business Officer, South Australia Cricket Association (SACA) - Andrew shared insights into SACA's approach to integrating sustainable initiatives into cricket events.
He discussed the actions they've successfully implemented, challenges they’ve faced, and valuable learnings along the way. Key focus areas include developing a sustainability roadmap that addresses energy use, waste management, travel, and working with suppliers. Andrew also emphasised the importance of collaboration and learning from others in the industry.
Interested in more insights? Check out The Imperfects podcast episode featuring Pat Cummins, as mentioned by Andrew.
click here
Click here for Andrew’s presentation
• Anthony McIntosh, CEO of Little Athletics Victoria (LAVic), shared insights into how they are integrating sustainability into their operations.
LAVic, which hosts events for 18,000 athletes and 15,000 families primarily in the Melbourne metropolitan area, is taking proactive steps to reduce its environmental impact. Initiatives include encouraging the use of refillable water bottles, promoting carpooling and public transport, and working with local vendors to minimize food miles. They've distributed insulated water bottles to over 100 officials, recycle apparel in partnership with Athletics Victoria, and use livestreaming to lower the carbon footprint of events. Despite challenges such as limited control over suppliers and a lack of financial incentives, LAVic is committed to embedding sustainable practices across all aspects of their activities.
Click here for Anthony’s presentation
• Brett Saxon, Event Organiser & Race Director, Trailsplus on their 'LEAVE NO TRACE, just footprints' approach to staging events.
Since 2009, Trailsplus has hosted over 125 trail running events with a commitment to reducing their environmental impact. Key sustainability initiatives include eliminating single-use plastic by replacing plastic ribbon markers with reusable signs and ribbons, discontinuing plastic and paper cups in favor of collapsible silicone cups, and recycling timing chips. They also implement portable solar power and encourage the reuse of race materials, such as safety pins and unclaimed trophies.
Trailsplus is dedicated to waste reduction, now averaging just 2–3 bags of waste per event by separating recyclables, compostables, and landfill items, and participating in a container deposit scheme for charitable donations. Collaborating with suppliers, they’ve minimized plastic packaging for medals, shirts, and headwear. Additionally, they work with sustainable sponsors like Divine Grind Coffee, Teko Socks, and Tarkine Shoes to further their environmental impact.
Trailsplus’ philosophy, "Leave No Trace, Only Footsteps," underscores their ongoing efforts to make a difference, reminding participants that even small actions can contribute to significant change.
Click here for Brett’s presentation
For a recording of the webinar, please click on link below and enter the passcode.
Shared Screen and speaker view
Passcode: 4fENY3^Z
