| Date: 12/14/2008 3:16 PM |
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The 48th International Show-Jumping in Geneva (2008) has caught the attention of the world not only because of its spectacular competitions involving man-stallion harmony, but also because of its sustainable model for ecological footprint.
Organization of sporting events brings together a host of responsibilities related not only to efficient organizing but also the social and environmental costs associated around them. From site selection and construction to transportation, accomodation and catering, everything needs to be aligned to suit long-term sustainable objectives.
As the largest Indoor Show Jumping competition of the world, CSI-W Geneva carries the baton of leading others in ‘responsible organizing’. The first steps towards this direction were taken in 2007 with the formation of a dedicated committee for realizing actions in Sustainable Development (CDD#CHIG). Ever since, promotion of awareness and eco-gestures have been at the heart of the committee’s work.
The event site, Geneva Palexpo, is a stone’s throw from train station. A ten minutes walk from the station is not only wonderfully refreshing but also minimizes the use of any fuel-emission transport. Such a design of the site plan has been primary to the objectives and committment of the organizing committee at CSI Geneva. Impeccable style and decoration at the event is supported by the temporary structures that can be dismantled, recovered and re-used ; thus minimizing the quantity of waste being sent to landfill sites. It also avoids any adverse impacts on the environment while minimizing transport (especially road transport for heavy material)
. Another prime example of a eco-friendly sport action is the location and site for the athletes. With over fifty international riders participating, the organizers make sure that commuting distances are short and convenient. A close-by hotel at five minutes walk ensures that this committment is kept to.
At CSI Geneva, keeping the venue litter-free through efficient use and placement of garbage bins adds momentum towards implementing responsible waste management practices. Whilst creating a clean purchasing policy, the CDD#CHIG ensures choosing a catering company that favours local produce and uses biodegradable tableware
. As important as it is to channel efforts in this direction, seeking partners and sponsors who have the capability to realize this goal at a larger scale comes naturally. Low waste and carbon solutions offered by one of the main sponsors aligns the objectives and image of both – event, as well as the partner.
The role of this annual mega event is enriched by creating a positive legacy at the end. Its contributions back to the community of volunteers, spectators, venue services and the overall sport development is well established and recognized, even by external organizations like Ecosport.
