The project, delivered in collaboration with Viessmann and supported by the Bavarian Forestry Commission, marks a tangible shift from narrative-led sustainability to measurable, on-the-ground impact—an approach increasingly expected across international sport.

From Concept to Climate Action in the Alps

On 28 April 2026, a group of 13 IBU staff, joined by German biathletes Philipp Nawrath and Johannes Kühn, carried out the planting near Hintersee in Ramsau, Berchtesgaden.

The initiative forms part of a broader plan to plant 1,281 seedlings, with 800 already in the ground and the remainder to be completed by the Bavarian Forestry Commission.

Set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most sensitive alpine ecosystems, the project represents more than symbolic action. It contributes directly to biodiversity restoration, carbon sequestration, and the long-term resilience of mountain environments increasingly under pressure from climate change.

Linking Performance with Environmental Purpose

Originally launched during the winter season, the ‘Forest of Champions’ concept connects sporting success with environmental legacy. It is a model that seeks to align elite performance with tangible contributions to nature—bridging a gap that has often existed between sport’s global platform and its environmental responsibilities.

At its core, the initiative reflects the IBU’s Sustainability Focus Areas and Framework, integrating climate action into events, athlete engagement, and organisational operations.

As one project representative noted:

“Rather than remaining a symbolic concept, the planting day became a shared experience that connected employees, athletes, and partners through direct action on the ground.”

This emphasis on participation is critical. By involving staff and athletes directly in the physical act of reforestation, the IBU moves beyond policy into practice—embedding sustainability into organisational culture rather than positioning it as an external commitment.

Partnerships Driving Practical Impact

The success of the initiative also highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration. Viessmann, a long-standing Climate Partner of the IBU, played a central role in delivering the project, reinforcing a shared responsibility between sport and industry.

Such partnerships are increasingly central to delivering scalable sustainability solutions in sport. They enable access to expertise, funding, and operational capacity—turning strategic intent into real-world outcomes.

The involvement of the Bavarian Forestry Commission further ensures that the project is grounded in ecological expertise, supporting appropriate species selection, planting methods, and long-term monitoring.

A Growing Legacy in the Mountains

With 800 trees now planted, the ‘Forest of Champions’ is beginning to take shape as a living legacy within the Bavarian Alps. The remaining seedlings will complete the project, ensuring a lasting environmental contribution that extends well beyond a single event or season.

Crucially, the initiative also serves as a communication platform—raising awareness of climate issues within the biathlon community and reinforcing the connection between sport, nature, and responsibility.

Positioning Within Purpose & Impact

Within the forthcoming Global Sustainable Sport Purpose & Impact (P&I) Index, the IBU is set to feature among the Top 15 most purposeful sports organisations in the world.

This positioning reflects a combination of strategic intent and practical delivery. While many organisations continue to focus on commitments and frameworks, the IBU’s approach—demonstrated through initiatives such as the ‘Forest of Champions’—highlights the importance of measurable action across the Planet, People and Partnerships pillars, pillars that IBU score very strongly in.

By embedding sustainability into both its operations and its community, the IBU is not only responding to environmental challenges but helping to redefine what purposeful sport looks like in practice.