People, Planet, and Prosperity in Sport for All: Guidelines & Recommendations

The United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by 193 countries in 2015, serve as a global blueprint for addressing the world’s most pressing challenges by 2030. These 17 interconnected goals aim to tackle issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, and access to education and healthcare. At the heart of the SDGs are three guiding principles: People, Planet, and Prosperity.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Definitions

  • People focuses on dignity, equality, and the well-being of all individuals, ensuring no one is left behind.
  • Planet emphasises protecting the environment and combating climate change to preserve the Earth for future generations.
  • Prosperity highlights the importance of economic growth, innovation and creating opportunities for all to thrive in harmony with nature.

Specific types of guideline this Activity Box applies to

International Sport Organizations

National Sport Federations

 

KEYFACT

Whether you are organising a small local event or leading a large initiative, every action counts. Together, we can make sport a driver of meaningful change, inspiring a world where everyone thrives, the planet is respected and opportunities are shared.

Why is it so important

Sport is more than just a game—it is a powerful tool for change. It brings communities together, inspires hope, and creates opportunities for a better future. But with this power comes responsibility: to use sport in ways that not only benefit people but also protect the planet and build lasting prosperity.

These principles align seamlessly with the mission of Sport for All, which seeks to use sports as a universal language to foster inclusivity, sustainability, and community development. The following recommendations explore how individuals and organisations can integrate these principles into their sports initiatives, with direct links to the SDGs.

Who can apply this

People: Inclusive and Empowered Communities

Sports ensure equal access for all, helping to bridge health, education, and social gaps. This supports SDGs 3, 4, 5, and 10 by promoting well-being, education, gender equality, and inclusion.

Actions for Individuals:

  • Organise sports events that promote health and learning.
  • Create safe spaces for women and marginalized groups.
  • Adapt programs for diverse participants.

Actions for Organisations:

  • Partner with healthcare and education sectors.
  • Design inclusive programs for all abilities.
  • Celebrate diverse role models.

Planet: Sustainable Sports Practices

Sports can encourage eco-friendly habits and raise awareness about climate change, supporting SDGs 12 and 13 through sustainability and climate action.

Actions for Individuals:

  • Use eco-friendly equipment and minimise waste.
  • Organise clean-ups and tree-planting initiatives.

Actions for Organisations:

  • Plan sustainable events with recycling and green transport.
  • Partner with environmental groups for advocacy.

Prosperity: Economic Growth Through Sports

Sports drive economic growth by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and teaching valuable skills, aligning with SDGs 8 and 11 on economic opportunity and sustainable cities.

Actions for Individuals:

  • Support local vendors and businesses in sports events.
  • Teach valuable skills like coaching and event management.

Actions for Organisations:

  • Offer vocational training in sports-related careers.
  • Collaborate with urban planners for inclusive sports spaces.

Checklist

The principles of People, Planet, and Prosperity remind us that sports can be a force for good in the world. By using sports to empower communities, protect the environment, and foster economic growth, we not only contribute to the SDGs but also create a legacy of hope and progress.

Check out the Think Sustainably Act Now toolkit to learn more about how to integrate People, Planet, and Prosperity into your programs and events. The toolkit includes additional details, checklists, and actionable plans to help you make your initiatives truly sustainable.

Whether you are organising a small local event or leading a large initiative, every action counts. Together, we can make sport a driver of meaningful change, inspiring a world where everyone thrives, the planet is respected and opportunities are shared.

Let us think sustainably, act intentionally, and work together for a brighter, more inclusive future through Sport for ALL.

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