How Can the IOC Improve Its Climate Change Efforts?

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Kirsty Coventry has acknowledged the urgent need for the organisation to take stronger action on climate change, particularly in light of a newly presented petition signed by over 21,000 individuals urging an end to fossil fuel sponsorship in winter sports. This call for action comes as the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics faces scrutiny due to its partnership with Eni, an oil giant, raising concerns over the environmental sustainability of future Olympic Games.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the countdown to the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics progresses, the IOC is facing increasing pressure from athletes and environmental advocates to reconsider its sponsorship arrangements with fossil fuel companies. Kirsty Coventry's recent remarks highlight the IOC’s recognition of climate change as a crucial issue, especially as the Winter Olympics may become harder to host reliably in the future due to shifting climate conditions. The IOC's commitment to sustainability is being tested, with Coventry promising that the organisation is engaged in ongoing discussions to address these concerns and improve its practices.

Key takeaways

• Kirsty Coventry acknowledges the IOC's need to act on climate change after receiving a significant petition.
• The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is partnering with Eni, an oil company, which has drawn criticism.
• The IOC aims to enhance sustainability by using existing venues and spreading events across wider areas.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey towards the 2026 Winter Olympics and the IOC's evolving stance on climate change has been marked by key events:

• March 2025: Kirsty Coventry elected as IOC president.
• October 2023: Over 21,000 individuals sign a petition against fossil fuel sponsorship in winter sports.
• February 6-22, 2026: Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics scheduled to take place.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent petition highlights growing public concern over the environmental implications of Olympic sponsorships, particularly with fossil fuel companies. Athletes have begun to leverage their platforms to advocate for change, and Coventry has responded positively, indicating that discussions are underway to address these concerns.

What was already established

Prior to this week's developments, the IOC had been criticised for its partnerships with high-carbon sponsors. The organisation's long-term strategy has included a focus on sustainability, but the effectiveness of these efforts remains a subject of debate among stakeholders and the public.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As the IOC grapples with climate issues, UK consumers may see shifts in how winter sports are marketed and funded. Rising awareness of climate change could lead to increased demand for greener practices, influencing consumer choices and sponsorship dynamics.

Businesses and jobs

The move towards sustainability could reshape business opportunities in the sports sector. Companies that align with eco-friendly practices may find new sponsorship opportunities, while those relying on fossil fuel partnerships might face reputational risks and potential financial losses.

Policy and regulation

As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, UK policymakers may look to the IOC's actions as a model for incorporating sustainability into sports regulations. Upcoming consultations and discussions could shape future guidelines for sports sponsorship and environmental responsibility.

Numbers that matter

• 21,000: Number of signatures on the petition advocating against fossil fuel sponsorship.
• 7: The number of the world's largest oil companies, including Eni, currently sponsoring the Olympics.
• 2: Newly built facilities for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, indicating a shift towards utilising existing venues.

Definitions and jargon buster

• IOC: International Olympic Committee, the governing body responsible for the Olympic Games.
• Eni: An Italian multinational oil and gas company, one of the world's largest fossil fuel providers.
• Winter Olympics: A major international sporting event held every four years, featuring winter sports.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the opening ceremony approaches, the IOC will likely intensify discussions with stakeholders regarding the petition's implications. Observers should monitor how these conversations influence IOC policies and sponsor relationships.

Medium term (1–6 months)

With the 2026 Winter Olympics on the horizon, the IOC's sustainability initiatives will be scrutinised. Stakeholders will assess the impact of these initiatives on future Olympic planning, especially for the next Winter Olympics in the French Alps in 2030 and Utah in 2034.

Signals to watch

• Petition responses from the IOC and any changes in sponsorship agreements.
• Developments in sustainability practices at the upcoming Winter Olympics.
• Feedback from athletes and spectators regarding the Games' environmental policies.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the IOC's sustainability initiatives and their outcomes.
• Support environmentally responsible businesses and sponsors.
• Engage with community discussions on climate change and sports.

Don’t

• Ignore the implications of fossil fuel sponsorship in sports.
• Assume that the IOC’s current practices are sufficient for sustainability.
• Overlook the importance of athlete activism in promoting environmental awareness.

Checklist

• Review the sustainability policies of sponsors associated with major sporting events.
• Research the environmental impact of upcoming Olympic Games.
• Follow updates from the IOC on their climate change initiatives.
• Engage with local initiatives promoting sustainability in sports.
• Advocate for transparency in sponsorship agreements involving fossil fuels.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

There remains a significant degree of uncertainty about how effective the IOC's responses to the petition will be. The complexities of changing long-established sponsorship models can present challenges, and it is unclear how rapidly the IOC can implement meaningful changes. Additionally, the impact of climate change on future Olympic venues remains a critical concern that may affect the viability of hosting the Games in certain locations.

Bottom line

The IOC's recognition of the need for improved sustainability practices is a crucial step forward as it prepares for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. However, the path ahead is fraught with challenges, particularly regarding fossil fuel sponsorships and the broader implications of climate change on future Olympic events. The IOC must navigate these complexities carefully while responding to increasing public and athlete pressure for accountability and action.

FAQs

What is the petition regarding the IOC about?

The petition, signed by over 21,000 individuals, calls for the IOC to cease partnerships with fossil fuel companies, highlighting concerns over climate change and the environmental impact of such sponsorships.

How does climate change affect the Winter Olympics?

Climate change is expected to reduce the number of reliable host countries for the Winter Olympics, making it increasingly difficult to hold the Games in locations that can guarantee suitable weather conditions for winter sports.

What steps is the IOC taking to improve sustainability?

The IOC is aiming to enhance sustainability by utilising existing venues, spreading events over a wider area, and engaging in ongoing discussions with stakeholders to address environmental concerns.