Can Australian sport ever be environmentally sustainable?
Sport is deeply woven into Australian life. From community grounds to elite stadiums, our sporting systems rely on healthy land, water and communities to thrive. Yet climate change is increasingly disrupting the way sport is played, managed and experienced, raising an urgent question for the sector: can Australian sport ever be environmentally sustainable?
A recent article published by The Conversation explores this challenge, examining how climate impacts such as extreme heat, weather disruptions and environmental degradation are already affecting sport across the country. The article highlights that while many sporting organisations are taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint, the scale and consistency of action varies widely across the sector.
At Sports Environment Alliance, this question sits at the heart of our purpose. We exist to support sport to respond to environmental challenges in practical, credible and sector led ways, recognising that protecting the places we play is essential to the future of sport itself.
Research informed action through partnership
SEA’s work is strengthened through our partnership with Victoria University, which brings research expertise and evidence based insight into the sport sustainability conversation. Together, we are supporting research that explores the relationship between sport, environmental sustainability and community wellbeing, helping to build a clearer picture of where sport is making progress and where further action is needed.
Victoria University researchers are examining how sport organisations can better integrate sustainability into governance, strategy and operations, drawing on global best practice while considering the unique context of Australian sport. This research helps ensure that sustainability initiatives across the sector are informed, measurable and aligned with long term outcomes rather than short term fixes.
As highlighted by Victoria University, sport has a powerful role to play in influencing behaviour, shaping culture and demonstrating leadership on environmental issues. With millions of participants, volunteers and fans engaged every week, sport is uniquely positioned to inspire action well beyond the field of play.
Looking ahead
The path to a more environmentally sustainable sporting sector will not be simple. It requires collaboration, shared learning and a willingness to embed sustainability into decision making at every level, from local clubs through to national bodies.
Through partnerships, research and sector wide engagement, SEA is committed to supporting sport to navigate this transition and to be part of the solution.
We encourage our members and broader community to read the full article from The Conversation and reflect on what environmental sustainability means for their organisation and their role within sport.