SportEYE Research Report is now available!
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 PLAY International, European Football for Development Network, International Olympic Truce Centre, Fundación Fútbol Más España, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, European Commission, Escuela de fútbol Fundación Real Betis Balompié and International Centre for Sport Security working together to activate and mobilize the local communities to improve 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.
The Research Report
The data revealed a growing awareness and commitment to sustainability among sports organisations. 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 organisations actively involving their local communities in sustainability efforts to ensure a broad and lasting impact. Various environmental initiatives are being implemented, such as recycling programmes, waste management systems, and eco-awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the ecological footprint and promoting environmental education among members.
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 programmes to foster a culture of environmental responsibility from an early age. Effective waste management practices are another highlight. Many sports organisations have implemented robust recycling programmes 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 minimising plastic.
The SportEYE project highlights the critical role that sports organisations play in promoting sustainability. Through their various initiatives, these organisations 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 organisations. 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 organisations 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
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
