Greening Sport for Development and Peace: A Socio-Ecological Approach

Abstract

The global “sport for development and peace” (SDP) sector uses sport as a field of social activity to promote diverse types of non-sport social development. In this short perspective article, I critically examine and advocate the engagement of SDP with environmental issues. I argue for the adoption of a “socio-ecological” approach, to enable a greening of SDP that promotes both environmental and social justice. To that end, the article is organized into four main parts. First, I situate the discussion with respect to key literature on SDP and the environment. I then outline some of the main contextual factors that need to be considered on sport, development, and the environment. Third, I set out several core principles that should underpin the socio-ecological greening of SDP. Fourth, I examine how these principles may be implemented within SDP.

Athletes and Environmental Activism: How Much do Athletes Contribute to Protecting the Planet?

“…The increasing attention gained by the Sport for Development and Peace (i.e., the intentional use of sport, physical activity and play to promote diverse types of non-sport social development) (Giulianotti, 2021) offers the opportunity to align the programs of this sector with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Thus, the role of athletes in promoting such goals, including those related directly to the environment such as Climate Action, Life below Water, and Life on Land, becomes fundamental.…”

Editorial: Transforming Our World Through Events: The Agenda 2030

“…By engaging innovative ways of exploring the public value of events in relation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030, we witness the use of events as tools in positive social impacts, public and sport diplomacy, advocating for human rights, addressing issues of climate change, managing sustainability, and emphasizing social justice (Collison et al, 2019). The Sustainable Development Goals address global challenges including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice (Giulianotti, 2021). This agenda presents fruitful conceptual ground in aspects of public policy and global governance of sport mega and major events.…”

Policy vs. practice in sport and climate change: the perspectives of key actors in global sport and international development

“…Overall, however, despite recognition of the scope of the climate crisis, and policies in place connecting sport to sustainable development, there remain concerns that the environment and climate change are rarely acknowledged within SDP activity and that even when they are, it is unclear how such policies are implemented, and to what effect (7)(8)(9). Indeed, the UNDESA policy brief made note of these very concerns, remarking that even "when commitments are in place, policies and initiatives sometimes lack hard targets, mechanisms for control, a sense of urgency and/or a coherent and comprehensive strategy" (6).…”