Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien, launched a new Sustainable Sports Programme aimed at helping National Governing Bodies (NGBs) adopt environmentally sustainable practices across their organisations. The initiative builds on the success of the GAA’s Green Clubs Programme and seeks to empower sports clubs at the grassroots level to take action in areas such as biodiversity, water, energy, and travel. The programme includes a comprehensive toolkit and training for NGBs, ensuring that clubs of all sizes and activities can implement effective sustainability measures.
Minister O’Brien highlighted the vital role of communities in achieving a climate-neutral society and emphasised that grassroots sustainability efforts are more likely to succeed when supported by top-down structures provided by NGBs. The programme aims to provide practical guidance and support to help clubs maintain long-term environmental initiatives.
The Sustainable Sports Programme was featured at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport’s Playing for the Planet Conference at Sports Campus Ireland, showcasing best practices on how sport can contribute to climate action both nationally and internationally. Minister for Culture, Communication and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, acknowledged the ongoing sustainability work of sporting organisations and stressed that the toolkit equips NGBs with skills to prioritise actions, implement initiatives, and monitor progress in areas such as travel and biodiversity.
The Sustainable Sports Programme toolkit is available online for National Governing Bodies and clubs seeking to enhance their environmental practices.
