Climate Challenges for the Sports Industry: A Follow-Up Analysis.

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The sports industry has long been recognised for bringing communities together and promoting physical fitness and healthy living. However, as the industry continues to grow and evolve, it is becoming increasingly clear that it also significantly impacts the environment and local communities. 

In this follow-up analysis to our previous blog post on the topic “Climate Challenges For The Sports Industry”, we will take a closer look at the environmental and social consequences of the sports industry, with a particular focus on the findings of a recent study by Gina S. Warren, Professor of Law | A.L. O’Quinn Chair in Environmental Studies and Co-director of the Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources Center at the University of Houston.

 

The Environmental Impact of Major Sporting Events

                               Winter Sports Venue © Anfernee Lo                   

The study by Warren, titled “Big Sports Have Big Environmental and Social Consequences,” highlights the various ways the sports industry contributes to environmental degradation. One of the main ways this occurs is through the construction and operation of sports facilities and infrastructure, such as stadiums, arenas, and hotels. These projects often require clearing large land areas and using significant energy, water, and other resources. Additionally, the study highlights the environmental impact of major sporting events, such as the Summer Olympics, World Cup, and Winter Olympics, which can lead to increased traffic, pollution, and waste.

 

The Carbon Footprint of Sports

The carbon footprint is a significant contributor to the environmental impact of the sports industry. The construction and operation of sports facilities, as well as the transportation of athletes, fans, and equipment, all contribute to the carbon footprint of the sports industry. For example, a study by the University of Cambridge estimates that the carbon footprint of the sports industry is equivalent to that of the aviation industry, which is a significant contributor to climate change.

 

The Water Footprint of Sports

Another significant environmental impact of the sports industry is the water footprint. The construction and operation of sports facilities and infrastructure require large amounts of water, and major sporting events can lead to an increased demand for water in host cities. This can strain local water resources and lead to water scarcity in local communities.

 

The Social Impact of Big Sports

The study by Warren also highlights the various ways in which the sports industry can harm local communities. One of the main ways this occurs is by displacing residents and businesses to make way for new sports facilities and infrastructure. Additionally, major sporting events can lead to increased crime and social unrest, as well as a strain on local resources and services.

 

Displacement and Forced Eviction

One of the most significant social impacts of the sports industry is the displacement and forced eviction of residents and businesses to make way for new sports facilities and infrastructure. This can cause significant hardship for affected communities and lead to social unrest and protests.

 

The Strain on Local Resources and Services

Another significant social impact of the sports industry is the strain on local resources and services. For example, major sporting events can lead to an increased demand for housing, transportation, and other services, which can pressure local communities and lead to a lack of access to basic needs for residents.

 

The Role of International Federations

Over a decade has passed since we first became aware of the environmental and social consequences of the sports industry. Yet, we have to see any enforceable change from international sports federations. Voluntary commitments, pledges, and continuous promises are not enough – it’s time for these federations to start implementing policies that will make a difference. Each country needs to be held accountable for its part in this industry, and only then will we begin to see real change.

 

The Need for Government Action

Climate change is getting worse, and the natural disasters and consequences on communities and habitats that we frequently see indicate that. To effectively address the environmental and social consequences of the sports industry, it is essential for government heads and local institutions, such as the EU, to implement policies for each member state to enforce. These policies should be similar to how tax declarations are done yearly, continuously and based on local jurisdiction.

 

Conclusion

The sports industry is an integral part of our global culture and economy, but it is clear that it also significantly impacts the environment and local communities. By recognising and addressing these challenges, we can ensure that the sports industry continues to thrive while protecting the planet and its inhabitants. The international sports federations have a significant role in leading the change towards more sustainable practices. However, it is time for government heads and local institutions to take action by implementing and enforcing policies in each country.

 

The clock is ticking, and we can’t afford to wait any longer. With the right policies and regulations in place and the mindset that “when there’s a will, there’s a way, ” we can ensure that the sports industry continues to thrive while protecting the environment and local communities. We must take action now before it’s too late.

 

We hope this post has helped you better understand the business risks and opportunities that climate change poses for the sports industry.

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