The Sustainable [Major] Sporting Events Project aims to transform sporting events into drivers of sustainable development, aligning with the UN’s 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The project promotes intergenerational responsibility by integrating ecological, social, and economic considerations into event planning. It involves a multi-stakeholder approach, including organizers, sports associations, and government levels, to develop sustainability standards applicable to events of all sizes.
Through workshops, symposia, and an advisory board, the project identifies best practices and challenges to minimize human rights risks and maximize the positive impact of sporting events on society and the environment. An initiative to develop sustainability standards for sporting events in Germany, focusing on ecological, social, and economic dimensions to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key learning objectives:
- Holistic sustainability: Understanding the interconnectedness of ecological, social, and economic aspects in event planning.
- Stakeholder engagement: Learning how collaboration between organizers, athletes, and the public can enhance sustainability.
- SDG implementation: Applying the SDGs to sporting events to promote sustainable consumption, community well-being, and environmental protection.
The Project addresses SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by reducing the environmental footprint of events, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting health and safety, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by minimizing human rights risks.
Importance of water sport:
- Water resource management: Highlighting the importance of water conservation, wastewater treatment, and minimizing pollution from water-based activities.
- Added value: Connecting water sustainability to broader sustainability goals, such as biodiversity conservation and climate action. Educating participants and spectators about the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems for future generations.
Target Groups/Clients:
- Sports event organizers (local, regional, national, international)
- Sports associations
- Government representatives (local, regional, national)
- Athletes
- Event visitors/spectators
- Technical experts in ecology, social affairs, and economy
- Members of the public
Transferable practices:
- Developing sustainability standards: Adaptable framework for assessing and improving the sustainability performance of events.
- Integrating SDGs: Aligning event planning with global sustainability goals to maximize positive impact.
- Online resource portal: Sharing project results and best practices for wider dissemination and replication.
Synergies:
- Multi-stakeholder collaboration: Involving diverse groups in the development of sustainability standards ensures comprehensive and inclusive outcomes.
- Workshops and symposia: Engaging experts and the public to gather insights and build consensus.
- Project advisory board: Providing guidance and oversight from key stakeholders in sports, government, and civil society.