News article
European Cross Country Championships to reduce impact with plan
The organisers behind the European Cross Country Championships in Antalya, Turkey have prioritised environmental and social sustainability to help minimise the impact of the event, which takes place later this week.
The Local Organising Committee hopes to reduce the carbon footprint of the athletics event and to create a lasting, positive impact.
A number of impactful actions have been implemented around paper reduction; reducing single-use plastics; land regeneration; increased participation in sports; ecosystem preservation; boosting the local economy and utilising effective waste management.
Perhaps the most innovative aspect, as highlighted by European Athletics, is the sustainable legacy concerning the championship venue, Dokuma Park. Following the event, a new running course will be built for public use to encourage fitness.
Olive tree seeds will also be gifted to all medallists to plant in the Botanical Garden within the park, while the event will feature a beach cleaning initiative to raise awareness around the environmental impact of mass tourism in Antalya.
The organisers’ sustainability plans are also aligned with the Turkish municipality of Kepez’s own priorities.
Image: leah hetteberg on Unsplash