IOC Celebrates Climate Champions in Sport
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) proudly unveiled the finalists for the 2024 Climate Action Awards. This prestigious accolade honors those within the Olympic Movement making significant strides in combating climate change. The initiative, backed by Deloitte, showcases the relentless efforts of athletes and organizations to foster environmental sustainability in sports.
Marie Sallois, IOC’s Director of Sustainability, emphasized, “Climate change impacts everyone, sports included.” She highlighted the high caliber and volume of entries, reflecting the progress made within the Olympic community. The awards celebrate innovation and dedication to reducing sports’ environmental footprint.
Deloitte’s Jennifer Steinmann remarked on the synergy between the awards and the Paris 2024 Games’ sustainable focus. “Deloitte is committed to driving sustainable change,” she stated, reinforcing their role in supporting the awards and promoting widespread climate action through technological and educational advancements.
The announcement event, hosted by Deloitte during the Paris 2024 Games, set the stage for the winners’ reveal during UN Climate Week in September. This global platform will further elevate the significance of the finalists’ groundbreaking work in sustainability.
National Olympic Committees Lead the Way
The NOC category features remarkable initiatives. For instance, the Chilean Olympic Committee’s strategy has dramatically increased recycling at their training center. Similarly, the Hellenic Olympic Committee’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions showcase a commitment to sustainable practices across their operations.
- Chilean Olympic Committee: Boosted recycling from 2 to 98 tons
- Hellenic Olympic Committee: Projected 24% emission reduction by 2025
- Mauritius NOC: Pioneered a “Bio Climatic gym” using renewable resources
The Spanish and Swiss Olympic Committees also stand out. Spain’s initiative to recycle sportswear into national flags and Switzerland’s Climate Fund supporting eco-friendly projects exemplify the diverse approaches to sustainability within the Olympic Movement.
These efforts collectively highlight the power of sports organizations to inspire and implement effective climate strategies, leading to substantial environmental benefits and community engagement.
International Federations’ Green Innovations
The International Biathlon Union (IBU) is at the forefront, collaborating with broadcasters to minimize their carbon footprint. Their pioneering work sets a benchmark for other sports federations to follow. The International Canoe Federation’s DECK program also impresses with its comprehensive approach to sustainability in competitions.
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is revolutionizing artificial turf technology. By significantly reducing water usage, FIH aims to replace thousands of water-based pitches globally, achieving massive water savings. This innovation underscores the critical role of technological advancements in sustainable sports.
World Rowing’s partnership with WWF promotes water conservation, engaging rowers as environmental advocates. Their Water Wardens project and educational initiatives foster a global movement towards preserving our waterways.
World Rugby’s development of the Carbon Emissions Reporting Tool (CERT) addresses the need for standardized emission tracking. This tool aids event organizers in identifying and implementing effective emission reduction strategies, promoting knowledge sharing within the rugby community.
Athletes Championing Environmental Causes
Mountain biker Christopher Blevins’ project, “Where do we land?” merges art and activism to highlight climate issues. Similarly, rower Imogen Grant’s Clean Water Sport Alliance aims to improve water quality, showcasing athletes’ influence in environmental advocacy.
Beach volleyball player Lina Taylor’s Climate Executive Coaching empowers leaders to integrate sustainability into their practices. Her impact spans over 2,000 individuals across multiple sectors, demonstrating the far-reaching effects of athlete-driven initiatives.
Canadian skier Marion Thenault’s efforts in measuring and reducing her carbon footprint provide a model for other athletes. Her collaboration with the Le Relais Foundation aims to sustainably manage the environmental impact of ski events.
Hockey player Oliver Scholfield co-founded “Racing to Zero,” a consultancy guiding sports organizations toward sustainability. His work exemplifies the proactive roles athletes can play in driving climate action within their communities.
JohnGalaxy
Lina Taylor’s Climate Executive Coaching sounds like it has a huge impact. Where can I learn more about it?
sadie
Great initiatives, but I hope they also focus on reducing the carbon footprint of international travel for events.
LucyMoonlight
Is it just me, or does the Spanish Olympic Committee’s idea to recycle sportswear into flags sound super cool?
TigerAurora
How can smaller sports organizations implement these kinds of sustainable practices without big budgets?
jayden
This is fantastic! Thank you, IOC, for recognizing these efforts. Climate action is so important.
Alice_Dreamer
I’m curious, how does the International Hockey Federation’s new turf technology actually work to save water?
coopersapphire
Can’t believe the Chilean Olympic Committee managed to boost recycling from 2 to 98 tons! That’s insane! 😲
CleoMoonshadow6
Wow, I had no idea sports organizations were doing so much for the environment! Who else thinks this is amazing?