The strategy was unveiled at last month’s National Sports Convention in Melbourne, with Hockey Australia making the leap after feeling the effects of climate change. Increased rainfall, higher sea levels, poor water quality and other extreme weather events have disrupted training, matches and tournaments while also impacting venues and facilities.
Hockey Australia will collaborate closely with its member associations and clubs to embed sustainability initiatives and help to protect the future of the sport.
“The launch of Hockey Australia’s Climate Sustainability Strategy starts our journey towards tackling one of the biggest challenges facing the future of our sport,” commented David Pryles, Chief Executive of Hockey Australia.
“We’re looking forward to working with our member associations, clubs and the hockey community as we strive to protect the environment of our sport.”
“The launch of Hockey Australia’s Climate Sustainability Strategy starts our journey towards tackling one of the biggest challenges facing the future of our sport.”David Pryles, Chief Executive of Hockey Australia
Not only has Hockey Australia published its first Climate Sustainability Strategy, but it has also become one of only eight Australian sporting organisations with 280 signatories globally to commit to the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework. This means that the body has committed to work towards a 50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and achieve net zero emissions by 2040.
The strategy is focussed on five key principles which underline four action pillars: undertake systematic efforts to promote greater environmental responsibility; reduce overall climate impact; educate for climate action; promote sustainable and responsible consumption; and advocate for climate action through communication.
Melissa Gmeiner, Social Impact and Sustainability Manager of Hockey Australia, added: “Our Sustainability Strategy is about starting small and allowing Hockey Australia to look at what we can directly impact and control while also looking at what we can implement to influence our community and our members.
“We have a great opportunity as an organisation to inspire and lead positive change through our influence and platform.”
Image: Hockey Australia
