Extreme E has signed up to the United Nations' (UN) Sports for Nature Declaration, part of the non-governmental organisation's drive for sporting organisations to do more for sustainability.
The sport for purpose championship is one of the first to sign up to the UN’s Sport for Nature Framework, which aims to safeguard nature, contribute to new biodiversity goals, and restore key ecosystems by 2030.
It is yet another example of Extreme E’s commitment to raising awareness of the climate crisis, sustainability, low carbon solutions, alongside electrification and gender equality.
As part of signing up to the initiative, Extreme E will commit to sustainability action plans for four principles:
- Protect nature and avoid damage to natural habitats and species
- Restore and regenerate nature wherever possible
- Understand and reduce risks to nature in our supply chains
- Educate and inspire positive action for nature across and beyond sport
The series will provide an annual report regarding its commitment to the aforementioned principles, where its effectiveness and credibility will be analysed alongside the other organisations, such as the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who have signed up.
“Our organisation recognises that protecting and restoring nature is critical for ensuring a healthy environment, which athletes and the whole of society need to thrive,” said Julia Wall-Clarke, head of impact and communications at Extreme E.
“This has been best evidenced through our legacy programmes, where Extreme E identifies impactful projects for each race location with support from the Scientific Committee, partner NGOs, and engagement with the local community.
“Through our championship, working alongside the UN and together with our leading scientists and partners, we are proud to sign the Sports for Nature declaration and play our part in supporting a low-carbon future. This is yet further evidence of our commitment towards environmental responsibility and extensive efforts to promote sustainability.”
Speaking at the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) held in Montreal, Canada, professor Carlos Duarte from Extreme E’s Scientific Committee added: “For Extreme E to be at the forefront of sporting organisations in signing the Sports for Nature Declaration is a landmark moment.
“We have already seen the vast potential of Extreme E to raise awareness of climate change and promote impactful solutions by engaging audiences in a shared vision of a sustainable planet. This will only continue to grow as the need to tackle climate change becomes more critical.
“We understand that to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals and support the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, it is imperative to take action that will deliver transformative change to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.”