Harnessing power of sport to #BeatPlasticPollution

The theme of the 50th World Environment Day, celebrated globally on June 5, is a reminder that businesses, organisations and governments, as well as people in their daily lives, need to take action to “beat plastic pollution”.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is committed to using the power of sport to help end plastic pollution.

Here are four examples of how the Olympic Movement and the Games are playing their part in accelerating the transition to a circular economy.

1. Walking the talk

The IOC reviews waste management policy and the materials consumed within its headquarters and at corporate events. Changes made over the last few years have seen significant reductions already, especially in single-use plastics.

2. Towards sustainable Games

Sustainability is a core commitment of Olympic Agenda 2020+5 – the Olympic Movement’s strategic roadmap. It includes a commitment to foster sustainable Olympic Games and to ensure that sustainability is mainstreamed throughout all aspects of their planning and delivery.

3. The Power of Sport: The Big Plastic Pledge

Olympic sailing gold and silver medallist Hannah Mills founded the Big Plastic Pledge in 2019, with IOC's support. The campaign harnesses sport to unite athletes, fans, volunteers and event organisers behind the goal of reducing single-use plastic.

4. From global to local: Collaborating in Oceania

The IOC is collaborating with the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) and other strategic partners to increase cooperation on coastal and waterway pollution prevention.

Let's play our part to #BeatPlasticPollution.

Source and main image: IOC