Thursday, 20 May 2021

Giving Us a Sporting Chance?

The BBC covered a report on the challenges that will be faced by 'Global Sport', as climate change hits (dismissed as 'eco-panic' by some sports writers). The report actually covers sport's role in generating climate change, as well as the likely consequences on football, tennis, golf, rugby, horse racing, athletics etc (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-53111881). It was, therefore, disappointing, that the clip about the report shown on the national news, entirely focused on the probable disruptions of 'much loved' sporting activities. Elevated temperatures might mean that cricket matches could not be played over 5 consecutive days. Football pitches at some major clubs, could be subject to annual flooding. Winter sports would disappear, along with the snow. 'Global Sport's' substantial role in climate change was almost entirely airbrushed. 'Global Sport' is actually a major component of the travel and advertising businesses. It, involves moving the 'players', their equipment and teams, on a regular basis over considerable distances. It also involves moving substantial numbers of fans (generally more cheaply?) to watch them. Claims, for example, that Formula 1 car racing, intends to becoming 'carbon neutral' appear just fanciful. That is, unless their governing body, also intends negating the carbon emissions of the people, who jet off to watch the races. The trouble is that, to make its billions, 'Global Sport' needs activities over much of the globe (otherwise, it's not global). It also needs these events to be regular and spectacular. Airlines, travel agencies and advertising are, consequently, highly supportive 'players' in these enterprises. Four things are clear. The first is that we need a major reduction in 'greenhouse gas' release, to stand any chance of averting the climate crisis. The second is that air travel makes a major contribution to atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. The third is that 'Global Sport' is unlikely to change its business model. The fourth is that many 'fans' retain a sense of entitlement about having 'freedom' to 'follow' their sports. I really can't see much changing.

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