Is ISO20121 Certification a Detour or Gamechanger for Eco-Striving Sport Events? A Conceptual Typology

Abstract

An increasing number of sport organizations express interest in international accreditation standards as a way of tackling environmental sustainability (ES) challenges. This article, however, argues that the commercial context of these standards and “the bazaar economy” in which its suppliers operate may hamper the diverse solutions needed to reduce the ecological footprint of sport. At the same time, it acknowledges that standards are useful to certain sporting organizations. To sort out the pros and cons of the relation between such standards and ES work in sport organizations, the Formula E (for Electric) championship is used as case example. The championship became the first category in motorsport to receive ISO certification in 2018, and 2 years later, it achieved net zero carbon footprint from inception. On that basis, the article provides a typology that provides coordinates for empirical research on how sport organizations may avoid “organizational hypocrisy” in their ES work by viewing the pros and cons of ISO certification. While the practical implication is insight into what it takes for a sport organization to achieve a specific certification, the academic implication is conceptual coordinates for empirical and comparative research of ES initiatives and certifications.

A figurational approach to environmental sustainability in the context of sport

“…The building was awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Platinum certification, which confirmed it as one the most sustainable buildings worldwide ( 27 ). However, certification is contested territory as it can highlight inconsistencies and result in accusations of organisational hypocrisy ( 28 ). From a figurational perspective, it is questionable whether certifications signify internalisation of ES values (being authentic) rather than just virtue-signaling (being performative).…”

“…From a figurational perspective, it is questionable whether certifications signify internalisation of ES values (being authentic) rather than just virtue-signaling (being performative). Furthermore, the quest for standardised approaches that neglect stakeholder diversity can lead to the unintended consequence of hindering genuine ES progress ( 28 ) or may be used as a means of diverting attention away from inaction elsewhere.…”

A Methodology to Evaluate GHG Emissions for Large Sports Events

“…In recent decades, the organization of sporting events has significantly increased. The organizers of the London 2012 Olympics teamed up with British Standards, the UK's National Standards Body, to develop an event management system that includes event sustainability objectives and sustainable development principles, subsequently called ISO 20121, a standard for the management of sustainable events [9].…”

“…The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed several standards related to environmental management and sustainability. These standards provide a framework for organizations to assess and reduce their environmental impact [9]. Throughout the article, we will clarify these fundamental concepts, providing a solid foundation for understanding the methodology and results presented.…”