In September, Global Sustainable Sport will introduce the Champions of Sustainability programme, building upon its innovative sustainability framework. The initiative is an open invitation to sports organizations worldwide, urging their active participation in forging a more sustainable future for both sports and the planet.

At present, a standardized framework to guide and articulate the sustainable initiatives of a sports organization is conspicuously absent. While numerous sports entities are eager to cultivate sustainability programs, the absence of a clear framework hampers their ability to adequately demonstrate the true social, economic, and environmental impact they generate, whether positive or negative, on society and the planet.

Without a clearly defined framework, the intrinsic value of sport remains unexpressed. The objective of the Champions of Sustainability programme is to facilitate every sports organization, be it a federation, team, league, club, event, venue, host city, nation, brand, broadcaster, or supplier, to transform into a “Champion of Sustainability”. This initiative is both aspirational and all-encompassing.

Global Sustainable Sport now invites organizations worldwide to join the Champions of Sustainability Programme. Additionally, the organization is actively seeking partners to provide support for this program. The programme’s initiation in early September will involve the Global Sustainable Sports Survey, a participatory endeavour that will furnish each organization with an initial evaluation of their sustainability endeavours across the seven Sustainable Pillars of Sport.

Subsequently, organizations can become part of the Champions programme, which will encompass a comprehensive assessment of their sustainability activities. In the spring of 2024, GSS will publish a series of reports analysing the data accumulated from the GSS survey and the programme. Complementing this will be The Global Sustainable Sports Awards program, a platform designed to recognize remarkable accomplishments by different stakeholders across the seven Sustainable Pillars of Sport.

The Champions programme will be fortified by the GSS Educational Programme, featuring a range of workshops and educational courses. These will guide sports organizations through various stages, from planning to development, advanced stages, ultimately culminating in the prestigious status of a Champion. The journey towards becoming a Champion may span several years for an organization. However, commencing the programme will furnish sports stakeholders with guidance and direction in the formulation of a robust and meaningful sustainability strategy, enabling a positive impact along the way.

The urgency of our planet demands a collective effort, urging not only individuals to champion sustainability but also champion FOR sustainability. To enrol in the programme, interested entities can complete the registration form and take the initial stride towards becoming a global Champion of Sustainability.

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Photo Courtesy Global Sustainable Sport

Courtesy Global Sustainable Sport