SportEYE Executive Summary is here!

SportEYE Executive Summary is here!

The SportEYE project

SportEYE is a transnational and multi-sectoral cooperation initiative co-funded by the European Union within the Erasmus+ programme, involving partners from the Olympic Movement, Sport for Development, Academia and civil society, working together to activate and mobilize the local communities in order to improve the good governance and impact the capacity of team sports clubs on SDGs indicators from a holistic perspective, through the incorporation of a comprehensive multilevel curriculum that reaches managing and training staff, and ultimately children and youth.

Results of Data Research

The data revealed a growing awareness and commitment to sustainability among sports organizations. Many organisations are now integrating environmental protection, human rights, and inclusivity into their core operations. This commitment is evidenced by the strategic approaches being developed, with organisations setting long-term sustainability goals aligned with the SDGs. Community engagement emerged as a significant theme, with many sports organizations actively involving their local communities in sustainability efforts to ensure a broad and lasting impact. Various environmental initiatives are being implemented, such as recycling programs, waste management systems, and eco-awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the ecological footprint and promoting environmental education among members.

Inclusivity and human rights are also prioritized, with organizations forming teams for marginalized groups, including Paralympic teams, to ensure equal access to sports facilities and programs. Collaborative projects with schools and other institutions are common, extending the reach of sustainability initiatives and focusing on educating the youth about environmental stewardship and sustainable practices

Several good practices were identified during the research. Environmental education is a key area, with clubs conducting campaigns to raise awareness about environmental issues through workshops, seminars, and eco-events. These initiatives aim to educate both members and the broader community, with a particular focus on engaging youth in sustainability programs to foster a culture of environmental responsibility from an early age. Effective waste management practices are another highlight. Many sports organizations have implemented robust recycling programs within their facilities, including separating recyclable materials and educating members on proper waste disposal methods. There are also efforts to upgrade facilities to be more eco-friendly, such as using energy-efficient lighting, reducing water usage, and minimizing plastic use.

The SportEYE project highlights the critical role that sports organizations play in promoting sustainability. Through their various initiatives, these organizations, not only inspire their local communities but also provide practical examples of how to integrate sustainable practices into daily operations. The educational package which will be developed by the project aims to equip sports managers, staff, and coaches with the tools necessary to foster sustainability within their organizations. Despite the challenges encountered, the growing commitment to sustainability within the sports sector offers a promising outlook, demonstrating that collective efforts can significantly contribute to addressing the climate crisis and promoting a sustainable future.

Recommendations for Future Actions

• Ongoing support for sports organizations in developing and implementing comprehensive
  sustainability strategies.
• Enhanced collaboration between sports entities and educational institutions to promote
  environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
• Establishment of a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress and ensure
  accountability in sustainability efforts.

By focusing on these areas, the SportEYE project aims to create a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the communities engaged in the field of sport and sport for development. This approach not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also fosters a culture of sustainability that can influence future generations.

Read the full report here