as part of the ‘Athletics for a Better World’ (ABW) sustainability programme. This recognition underlines our commitment to the environment and social responsibility and demonstrates the dedication of our entire volunteer team, our partner companies and sponsors, athletes and the community to make a positive contribution through athletics.
"Since we launched our Athletics for a Better World Standard, organisers of the Hypo Meeting were quick to take on a leading role, working will all their stakeholders to illustrate how sustainability can be embedded across an entire event. We congratulate them on their gold level achievement. I'm really looking forward to seeing what their passion and creativity will produce in next year's edition.”
The ABW Sustainability Programme award is based on a comprehensive assessment of sustainability measures at events. To achieve Gold Level, an event must score at least 96 out of a possible 120 points. The ABW standard comprises six pillars, including:
- Sustainability planning: Set clear goals, timelines and metrics for sustainability efforts.
- Cooperation in the area of sustainability: Close cooperation with ambassadors consisting of athletes, fans and volunteers, partner companies, the host community - the city of Götzis - and the fans, to promote a sustainable event culture.
- Sustainable consumption and waste management: reducing waste, minimizing single-use products and promoting environmentally friendly consumption.
- Energy and resource management: Sustainable energy practices and careful resource management throughout the event.
- Travel and Accommodation: Planning with environmental impact in mind, including promoting eco-friendly travel options for fans.
- Inclusion, Equality, Fair Competition and Health & Safety: Creating a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment for all participants, volunteers and guests.
The evaluation process includes 55 specific action areas designed to reflect World Athletics' comprehensive efforts and approach to the sustainable delivery of events worldwide at all levels. The standard of the World Athletics ABW program is tailored to the changing requirements of all licensed meetings worldwide. Starting this year, 2024, all World Athletics events will be assessed and ranked based on these measures, depending on how each event demonstrates commitment to sustainable practices.
“Organizing and implementing sustainable sporting events, year after year, is an ongoing path that is only possible through the efforts of the entire team,” emphasizes
Alexandra Giesinger, LOC President of the Hypomeeting.
“We are proud of this award and look forward to being able to set an example for responsible and sustainable sporting events with our event.”
With this recognition, we not only celebrate a milestone, but also look to the future with a renewed commitment to sustainability. We will continue to strive for positive change together with our athletes, teams, fans, volunteers and the entire community. On a social level and on an environmental level.
