Resources

Sport for Planetary Health Conference

Panel 1:
Collaboration for change / Why should different sectors work together for a sustainable future?

By promoting dialogue and collaboration between different sectors for a sustainable future, we can help stimulate innovative solutions to environmental and social challenges. Working together can achieve more and make significant progress towards a greener and healthier planet. Under the moderation of Asen Nenov (Circular Economy Institute), the panel features some of the key elements of intersectoral collaborations presented by:

  • Jana Janotova from the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) on how sport can support nature and offer innovative solution to reduce environmental impact
  • Ivaylo Tsvetkov from the EuroVolley Bulgaria on sustainable practices in sport event organisation
  • Zhana Velichkova from the Soft Drink Producers Association of Bulgaria on circular economy and role of education in behavior change
  • Dobromira Kostova, a Deputy Chairman of the Plovdiv Municipal Council, on role of public authorities in partnerships for environment

Panel 2:
Barriers and opportunities for green sports in Bulgaria and the region

What are the current challenges and opportunities facing sports organizations in Bulgaria and the region in implementing sustainable and green practices? Moderated by sports manager and social entrepreneur Victor Kirkov, the panelists from Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia elaborate on what can drive change and pave the way for a more sustainable future for sport:

  • Iliana Stoilova from Akasha surf reflects over the use of sport to bring about awareness regarding the climate change to the public
  • Daniel Hristov from the World Rowing Championships Committee discusses the incorporation of environmental practices into the sports event design
  • Branko Vujovic from Association Sport for All Serbia shares his thoughts on environmental policy-making through the lenses of environmental practices in sports in Serbia
  • Mihai Androhovici from AJSPT Suceava (Romania) comments on what is important to keep in mind while developing environmental strategies based on his experience in Romania

Panel 3:
Environmental, Social, Governance Responsibility in Sport

As a global industry with significant resources and influence, sport can play a critical role in promoting sustainable practices, promoting social justice and improving governance within organizations. By adopting green practices, promoting social justice and improving governance, sports organizations can not only reduce their negative impact on the world, but also inspire others to do the same. In the panel moderated by Maria Lazarova, the speakers present their vision of ESG in sport:

  • Maxime Chusseau analyses key environmental strategies in sport through the prism of large-scale events (FIBA, Formula E, Olympics 2024)
  • Mimi Visheva from FC Botev reflects over eco-friendly practices at football matches
  • Shirin Amin from the Champions Factory comments on how social change can be achieved through innovations in education and sports
  • Gaetan Garcia from The Association For International Sport for All (TAFISA) shares his thoughts on environmental practices in sport for all.

Sport for the health of the Planet

Assoc. Ph.D. Angel Dzambov, MD, PhD. – Scientific research institute of Plovdiv University/ Bulgaria

The new global concept of planetary health recognizes the interconnectedness between human well-being and the environment. This perspective emphasizes the fact that human health and well-being are inextricably linked to the health of our planet. The concept is based on the understanding that human health depends on factors such as air and water quality, the availability of clean food, climate stability and the overall health of ecosystems. Maintaining planetary health therefore requires collective action to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices in all sectors, including sport.