For example, at the Palace of Versailles, where the equestrian events take place, the rare plant “naked conopode” has been protected, and at the Golf National venue, temporary facilities have been carefully set up to avoid damage to pastures and wetlands.
“Paris 2024 has proven that delivering a spectacular and sustainable Olympic Games is both achievable and practical,” said Salois. “What sets sport apart from other sectors is its power to inspire. I think we all recognise that we offer a unique opportunity. No other sector, no other industry, can have such inspiring power, and that’s why we, more than anyone else, can be part of the solution.”
Donna Bertarelli, conservationist with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and president of the Donna Bertarelli Charity, said in a video message: “From the grandest stadiums to our local sports parks, sport unites us with passion and spirit, but with unity comes responsibility. Swinging, hitting, throwing, kicking, caressing, climbing, sprinting, riding, surfing or sailing, everything we do has an impact on nature. Our role in caring for this landscape is not just a duty, it is a fundamental necessity for survival and well-being.”
Launched in 2022, Sport for Nature is a joint initiative between IUCN, the IOC, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Donna Bertarelli Philanthropy. It aims to integrate biodiversity considerations into the planning and management of sporting events, including the Olympic Games. It encourages sports organisations to protect natural habitats, safeguard species and promote sustainable land use.
The full list of Sports for Nature signatories can be found here.
