Sports Environment Alliance

Sports Environment Alliance (SEA) member, SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre operated by YMCA Victoria (SAALC),  is leading the way in sustainable practices within the sports and recreation industry, and is a great example of how environmental responsibility and community engagement go hand in hand. Over the past 13 years, SAALC has implemented a range of initiatives that are both commercially savvy and also environmentally conscious: • Solar Power: Harnessing solar energy to power the facility during the day, with ongoing efforts to find sustainable solutions for evening operations. • Composting & Waste Streaming: Introducing composting and a 4-bin waste system to manage waste more efficiently. • Reducing Transport Emissions: Collaborating with patrons to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. • Heat Pumps: Retrofitting heat pumps to draw energy from solar power, enhancing overall energy efficiency. • Trackable Coffee Cups: A new initiative that ensures coffee cups are properly sorted and recycled. SAALC’s 13-year sustainability journey is a testament to their commitment to both the environment and the community. By prioritising sustainable practices, they’re not only protecting our planet but also reinvesting savings back into community programs, creating a lasting impact. To learn more about SAALC, please click here: https://lnkd.in/g8qFJc7P If you’re a sporting organisation wanting to prioritise sustainable practices, but not sure where or how to start, email us at [email protected], or visit our website by following the link below: https://lnkd.in/gRvU8SU #Sustainability #CommunityImpact #YMCA #SportsEnvironmentAlliance #ProtectThePlacesWePlay #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay

By implementing a broader ESG strategy, sports organisations can contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and ethically governed world, aligning with the growing expectations of fans, sponsors, and society at large. Join Sports Environment Alliance for another insightful 'Beyond the Summit' webinar, when this month we dive into the question 'What does implementing a broader ESG strategy mean for sport?' Hear from industry leaders about how they are integrating sustainable practices, social responsibility, and ethical governance into the core operations of sports organisations, events, and activities. Speakers: Rita Nehme, Head of Sustainability, Richmond Football Club Adam Luscombe, General Manager SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre YMCA Victoria and SAALC Date: Wednesday, 18 September Time: 2:00 pm 3:00 pm AEST Secure your spot by registering through the link below below: https://lnkd.in/geDJdcF9 #beyondthesummit #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay

And in other news... Seventeen new sports organisations have recently joined the Sports for Nature Framework, committing to protecting and enhancing the natural world. Their membership was celebrated at an event held during the Olympic Games Paris 2024, and brought the total number of Framework signatories to 76. "Sport relies on the natural world and has the responsibility to protect it. We are seeing growing commitment and passion from across the sports world, which demonstrates just how far the Olympic Movement has come in its sustainability journey. Through the Sports for Nature Framework, we want to make sure that sports organisations have the right tools and support to take action" said Marie Sallois, International Olympic Committee Director for Sustainability Launched in 2022, Sports for Nature is a joint initiative by the IUCN, the IOC, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy. It aims to integrate biodiversity considerations into the planning and operations of sports events, including the Olympic Games. It encourages sports organisations to protect natural habitats, conserve species and promote sustainable land use. To read more, follow the link : https://lnkd.in/gZ8s9KDJ #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay

Sports Environment Alliance is delighted to welcome Hockey Australia as our newest member. The team at Hockey Australia recently launched their Climate Sustainability Strategy, highlighting Hockey Australia’s desire to embrace change and protect its environment for future generations Hockey is also one of only eight Australian sporting organisations to commit to the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework, pledging to work toward a 50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040. As the sport sector continues to feel the impact of climate change, Melissa Gmeiner, Social Impact & Sustainability Manager at Hockey Australia explained why they have joined SEA. "Partnering with organisations such as SEA will support Hockey Australia as well as the broader sporting industry to have impact and influence for a more sustainable future.” SEA congratulates Hockey Australia on its proactive approach to addressing climate impacts, ensuring that the sports we love can thrive into the future. To read more please follow the link below: https://lnkd.in/gj38EKRW #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay

What is carbon, and why is it important to not only calculate your organisation's emissions, but to develop a plan to minimise the emissions? Sports Environment Alliance (SEA) recently hosted our latest ‘Beyond the Summit’ webinar on "Why understanding and calculating your organisation’s carbon footprint is crucial, and how to develop a plan to reduce emissions." We were delighted to have Michelle Morris (MBA, GAICD) from SEA Associate Member MI Global Partners and Christopher Wilson from Pangolin Associates Pty Ltd kick off the panel. Michelle shared how Chris’s expertise in carbon accounting helped MI Global on their sustainability journey. Next, we heard from another SEA member; Melbourne Cricket Club. Peter Wearne, General Manager, Facilities highlighted Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG’s) impressive journey, which began in 2009. To date they have achieved a remarkable 83% reduction in total emissions—equivalent to 26,604 tCO2-e. Finally, Sarah Lowe from another SEA member, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, discussed the unique challenges of carbon accounting in major events. She shared innovative solutions, such as using hydrogen cell power for emission-free energy and reducing single-use materials. This event offered valuable insights and actionable strategies for our members, that you can read more about by following the below link: https://lnkd.in/gCQ2zkBk Save the date: Join us at our next webinar "What does implementing a broader ESG strategy mean for sport?" on Wednesday, 18 September, 2:00 pm 3:00 pm AEST. Register by clicking on the link below: https://lnkd.in/geDJdcF9 If you’re looking to calculate your organisation's emissions and develop a plan to minimise the emissions, but not sure where or how to start, contact us at Sports Environment Alliance, by following the link below: https://lnkd.in/g3uXFXUi #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay #beyondthesummit

Today, on International Orangutan Day, we celebrate one of our planet's most intelligent and endangered species. Orangutans are not just symbols of the lush forests they call home, but they also represent the fragile balance of our ecosystems. A year ago – in August 2023 – Sports Environment Alliance CEO Jan Fitzgerald was invited to speak at the Asian Association of Sports Management conference in Sarawak, Malaysia. While there she had the opportunity to visit Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and see orangutan up close. In particular she was privileged to see Seduku (pictured), who at 52 is the matriarch of the sanctuary. At Semenggoh they’re doing all they can to protect the orangutan, whose numbers have dwindled due to biodiversity and habitat loss, and it was wonderful to see the great work they’re doing at the sanctuary. At SEA, we recognize that the health of sport is directly linked to the health of our planet As the world faces environmental challenges, including deforestation threatening orangutan habitats, we are reminded of the need to act on a range of environmental issues. Sport can be a powerful driver of change to act on these environmental challenges. Sports brings us together, fostering community and shared values. By advocating for sustainable practices within the sport ecosystem—whether it's reducing carbon footprints, minimising waste, or supporting reforestation efforts—we can play a crucial role in conserving the habitats of species like the orangutan. Let's make every game, every event, and every training session count towards a greener future. Together, we can ensure that future generations not only enjoy the sports we love but also the rich biodiversity that makes our world truly special. Join us in celebrating International Orangutan Day by taking a step towards sustainability in sports. 🌱🏀 https://lnkd.in/gdyts_26 #InternationalOrangutanDay #SportsEnvironmentAlliance #SustainabilityInSports #ProtectOurPlanet #Conservation #Orangutans #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay

The International Olympic Committee – IOC has released the finalists for the annual IOC Climate Action Awards 2024, celebrating those within the Olympic Movement who are taking concrete measures to help address climate change. Launched in November 2022, the IOC Climate Action Awards encourage, recognise and reward innovative projects from National Olympic Committees (NOCs), International Federations (IFs) and athletes that aim to reduce the environmental impact of sports, while inspiring the wider Olympic Movement to take action. “Climate change is taking its toll on everyone, and sport is no exception,” said Marie Sallois, the IOC Director of Sustainability. “We all have the responsibility to reduce our impact. The IOC Climate Action Awards aim to celebrate those that are driving climate action within the wider Olympic Movement..." Categories include: The Sustainable travel award that recognises innovative action and advocacy to travel more sustainably within the sports calendar. The Innovation award that recognises collaboration to accelerate the reduction of emissions by International Federations (IFs,) National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and athletes that use innovation and education to create more sustainable futures. The Athlete Advocacy Award that highlights the endeavours of athletes who actively engage people and communities in the fight against climate change. To read more, please follow this link: https://lnkd.in/gm8nCQF4 #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay #winnersaregrinners #olympian #parisolympics

City of Melbourne Bowls Club has been a longstanding member of Sports Environment Alliance (SEA). They might be small, but they certainly pack a big sustainability punch, and Jan Fitzgerald, SEA CEO and Hugo Carson, SEA's Memberships Support Officer recently visited new General Manager Amanda Cullen at the Club to learn more. One of the missions of the club is to reduce waste going to landfill by 70%. The biggest source of the clubs landfill waste comes from single-use plates and cutlery. To tackle this, they've introduced a policy that prohibits disposable items at the Club. Their catering partner, Spitting Image, also supports the initiative and provides crockery & cutlery for all events. To minimise food waste ending up in landfill, they have also installed a commercial composter that is capable of composting up to 20kg of food waste in 24 hours so all food waste can be composted onsite and used as compost on the surrounding gardens. They also have solar on the roof, rainwater harvesting, and were a pioneer in banning single-use plastic water bottles. To read more about City of Melbourne Bowls Club sustainability initiatives, please click the below link: https://lnkd.in/gn4RFypC If you’d like to learn how to implement a successful waste reduction, recycling and circular economy strategy into your sporting club or organisation, follow the below link, and also reach out to us; we’d love to assist! https://lnkd.in/g2e6ziUG #Sustainability #NoPlanetNoPlay #SportsEnvironmentAlliance #NoPlanetNoPlay #SEA_theChange #Sports #Sustainability #regeneration #SportandClimate #Sustainability #LitterFree #SportsEnvironmentAlliance #ReduceReuseRecycle #EcoFriendly #SustainableFuture 

🌍 Join Us in Leading the Way to a Sustainable Future! 🌍 At Sports Environment Alliance (SEA), we are committed to leading, educating, and empowering the sport ecosystem to take action for a sustainable and regenerative future. As a for-purpose, membership-based organisation, SEA provides the wider sports community with the knowledge and networks to become environmental stewards and generate change through sport, for the good of the environment. We are always seeking to work with forward-thinking organisations who share our members’ goals, to join us as SEA Partners. Are you a potential SEA Partner? Our Partners are leaders who play an important role in collaborating with our members, to support them in doing things differently to make a positive impact. SEA Partners: ✨ Collaborate with Leaders: Connect with like-minded organizations and industry leaders who are passionate about sustainability in sports. 📚 Access - and help create – Exclusive Resources: Gain access to cutting-edge research, educational materials, and best practices that will help you implement effective environmental strategies. And as a partner, co-create these with us 🌱 Drive Positive Change: Be at the forefront of driving sustainability initiatives that protect the places where we play and promote your environmental stewardship within the sports community. 🤝 Engage in Meaningful Projects: Participate in innovative projects and events that showcase your commitment to sustainability and amplify your impact. If this sounds like you, we’d be interested in speaking to you about Partnering with us. Together, we can create a powerful force for change. By becoming a SEA Partner, you are positioning your organisation as a leader in the movement towards a healthier planet. But more importantly, you are contributing to a more sustainable future for sport Take the next step in your sustainability journey and join us as a SEA Partner today. Learn more and get involved and register an expression of interest: https://lnkd.in/gb9Gwa4G Let’s lead, educate, and empower the sport ecosystem together. 🌱💪 #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay #FriendsofSEA #oneplanetteam #NoPlanetNoPlay #PlanetMatters #NoPlanetB #Sport #SportandClimate #ClimageChange #ClimateChangeMitigation #ClimateEducation #Sustainability #Sports #EnvironmentalStewardship #SEA #Partnership #CollectiveAction

Don't miss your opportunity to join Sports Environment Alliance tomorrow for an essential 'Beyond the Summit' webinar. This month’s focus: Why understanding and calculating your organisation's carbon footprint is crucial, and how to develop a plan to reduce emissions. 📅 Date: Tuesday, 13 August 🕚 Time: 11.00am - 12.00pm AEST Our expert speakers Michelle Morris (MBA, GAICD) from MI Global Partners and Christopher Wilson from Pangolin Associates Pty Ltd will share their extensive experience in carbon accounting and management, including their collaboration on the 2022 Basketball World Cup in Sydney. Joining them are Peter Wearne, General Manager of Facilities at Melbourne Cricket Ground Club, and Sarah Lowe, Sustainability Manager at the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. They’ll discuss their organisations' journeys towards carbon neutrality and the significant milestones they've achieved. Secure your spot now! Register through the link below: https://lnkd.in/gjahR6Nt #SEA_theChange #noplanetnoplay #FriendsofSEA #oneplanetteam #NoPlanetNoPlay #PlanetMatters #NoPlanetB #Sport #SportandClimate #ClimageChange #carbonfootprint