Meeting Sports on the Sand is an event organized by students of the School of Tourism and Maritime Technology (ESTM) at the Polytechnic Institute of Leiria. This year will be the 4th Edition of this event. The main goal of the event is to promote sports activities on the beach while integrating sustainability education. The project emphasizes environmental responsibility, physical activity, and community engagement. 

Key learning objectives:

• Encouraging sustainable event management practices among students.
• Promoting awareness of environmental issues such as waste reduction and ocean conservation.
• Enhancing teamwork and collaboration through sports and sustainability-focused activities.
• Supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Importance of water sport:

Water sports and beach activities play a crucial role in this project by:

• Connecting participants with nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems.
• Promoting active and healthy lifestyles through sports like surfing, beach volleyball, beach handball and yoga.
• Providing a platform for environmental education, such as microplastic collection activities and sustainable surfing practices.
• Encouraging the use of sustainable materials and waste reduction strategies in sports events.

Target Groups/Clients:

The event is primarily aimed at:

• • Students from various academic degrees within ESTM and Polytechnic Institute of Leiria.
  • Faculty members and university staff.
  • Local community members interested in sports and sustainability.
  • Environmental organizations engaged in marine conservation.

Good practices:

• Sustainable Event Management: Use of reusable materials, waste separation stations, and partnerships with eco-friendly organizations.
• Community Engagement: Collaboration with local NGOs such as Ocean Patrol and Clube do Ambiente (ESTM Environment Club) to provide hands-on environmental activities.
• Practical Learning: Workshops on recycled paper production and marine conservation efforts.
• Promotion of Active Lifestyles: Encouraging a mix of competitive and recreational sports with an environmental focus.

Organisation Name: Escola Superior de Turismo e Tecnologia do Mar (ESTM), Instituto Politécnico de Leiria – Degree: Event Managment (2nd academic year)

Location: Praia do Balel (first 2 Editions) and later Praia do Molhe Leste, Peniche, Portugal

Event Website/Social Media:

• • Instagram: @meetingdesportosnaareia
  • Facebook: Meeting Desportos na Areia