Sustainability at the IWGA
Sustainability is one of the core values on which the IWGA was founded. Subsequently, the IWGA joined the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework (UNFCCC) in May 2020 as well as Sport and Sustainability International to address the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and combat climate change.
Since the first edition of The World Games, we have implemented a unique venue approach, based on a complete personalisation to the host city characteristics and the principle of sustainability as a driving force. Our goal is to adapt the sports programme to the existing or temporary infrastructure, to limit the impact of the event on the environment, at the same time creating the best possible experience for athletes and fans.
For more information, read the IWGA Sustainability Strategy.
Sustainability at TWG 2022
The IWGA and Birmingham Organizing Committee (BOC) have decided to address the following seven select SDGs for The World Games 2022:
The Host City of The World Games 2022 in Birmingham, Alabama is committed to engaging its communities with several programmes that are fully in line with IWGA’s vision and missions. Below is a short summary of planned initiatives with link to the 17 SDGs set by the UN, that will be achieved through strong partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).
Predominantly environmental initiatives concern Tree Planting (13), Zero Waste (11), Food Harvesting (2), Signage repurposing (12) as well as Solar Trees (7, 9).
Predominantly social initiatives concern the ‘Education Program’ (3, 4), the ‘Healthy eating, active living program’ (2, 11), the 'World of Opportunity' vendor program (1, 5, 8, 10) as well as the 'Lakeshore Foundation Disability Inclusion Program' (10, 11).
Reporting
The World Games 2022 will be the first event with an extensive sustainability report, setting the benchmark for future events.