Kinitiko Ergastiri—The Association of Adapted Sports & Recreation Activities implemented a pilot or test project in five sports clubs of the C ZERO NETWORK in Greece. The project introduced and promoted eco-friendly practices to athletes with disabilities. This project combines the importance of inclusivity and sustainability in sports for all.
Objectives:
- To promote environmental awareness and environmental sustainability in sports, with a focus on vulnerable groups and individuals with disabilities
- Enhancing the use of eco-friendly and reusable sports material
Description of the practice:
The practice activities revolve around workshops where the participants learn about the importance of sustainable actions within sports. They learned how small changes can build momentum for bigger impacts. How using reusable water bottles instead of single-use plastics can, over time, make a tremendous impact by reducing the plastic use of a sports organisation. The workshops were directed towards individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities. Therefore the practice is not large in terms of multiple sustainability practices or topics. Still, it demonstrates that small changes can make a life difference and that all can contribute to a sustainable future.
Impacts & Results
During the workshops, a total of 50 participants had either physical or cognitive disabilities. The participants left the workshops with an increased understanding and knowledge of the importance of the reuse philosophy, not only in sports but in everyday life. Additionally, all participants were given reusable water bottles made from eco-friendly materials.
Conclusion & suggestion for youth workers:
One of the great things about this practice is that it showcases how all sports clubs and facilities can contribute to sustainability. You do not have to be a large club or sporting federation, regardless of sport, size or country, everyone can contribute to environmental sustainability. I think there are some key takeaways that many youth organisations can implement. The first is providing reusable water bottles for your members, participants or athletes. This applies not only to sporting organisations but to all types of youth organisations. The second is the emphasis on inclusivity, for this practice it was individuals with disabilities, everybody can and should be allowed to benefit from a sustainable future. Therefore, inclusive learning action should be a fundamental component for all organisations.
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