Environment and sustainability

How can sport contribute to tackling environmental challenges? What does climate change mean for the future of sport? This section explores the link between sport and the environment, providing information, examples and resources for those who want to learn more.

Recent years have seen dire warnings about climate change. In November 2022, global leaders reaffirmed their commitment to limiting global temperature rises to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. However, the latest science suggests that it will require a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and we are currently on track for a 2.5C rise by the end of the century.

We are already seeing the effects of climate change, from the shrinking of sea ice and melting of glaciers to ever more intense heat waves and more regular droughts. The effects of this are far reaching, contributing to increased food insecurity, forced migration and poverty, among other things.   

As the world grapples with the effects of a changing climate, it is important to address how sports, as a powerful global phenomenon, can contribute to both the problem and its solutions. Throughout this section, we will delve into various aspects of the relationship between sport and climate change. We will explore the impact of sport on the environment, the consequences of climate change for sport, what sports actors are doing to address it, and some future challenges.

Follow the links below to find out more about this important topic:

1. Sport and the environment: A team game
2. Making sports more sustainable
3. Community engagement and education
4. Advocacy and action
5. Policy
6. Key resources
7. Articles from the community: Responses to our call for articles on sport and the environment

Image by United Nations Environment Programme https://www.unep.org/