The SYC has through its sustainability initiatives demonstrated on numerous occasions how to incorporate sustainability in their activities both on land and on water. Through a series of workshops, community engagement and sustainability projects, the SYC reduces its environmental footprint and the negative impacts that sports can have on marine environments.
Objectives:
As a part of SYC sustainability initiatives, several objectives can be identified.
- Promote sustainability within marine sports
- Minimise the environmental impact of marine sports
- Enhance community engagement to create a sustainable future for all
- Preserve marine ecosystems and heritage
- Foster inclusivity for environmental action
Description of the project:
SYC incorporates sustainability into its operations in several ways. Firstly, education. Through public-hosted workshops like Sustainable yachting, participants learn about marine environments and conservation. Monthly lessons are also directed towards younger participants with a focus on plastic pollution and climate change. Secondly, several sustainability policies for the club include banning single-use plastics and providing water-filling stations to incentivise reusable equipment. Finally, it emphasises inclusivity for all, regardless of age.
Outcomes and results:
As a part of their initiatives, there have been many beneficial implications for sustainability. Namely, the ban on single-use plastics, an 84% reduction in plastic water bottle usage, and enhanced civil engagement and knowledge through inclusive and informative workshops.
Conclusion & suggestion for youth workers:
Whilst this practice differs slightly from the previous practices that have been mentioned. The sustainability initiatives of SYC showcase how sustainability can be incorporated into any sport and level. It also goes to show that there are many different actions you can incorporate to reduce your negative impact on the environment. Providing water stations and stopping buying single-use plastics is an affordable, and simple start which is a great starting point. Followed by workshops and adapting your specific sports projects can be longer-term objectives that you strive towards.
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