Understanding the development of green sport policies in the context of mega-events

This paper examines how figurational sociology can help explain the development of environmental sustainability policies in sport, particularly in the context of the Olympic Games. Environmental sustainability and climate change are becoming increasingly important issues across the global sport sector, with more sport organizations adopting sustainability policies and initiatives. The study focuses on how interdependencies, power relations, and policy processes shape environmental action in mega-events.

The Olympic Games are used as a case study to illustrate four dimensions of figurational sociology: interdependence, power relations, internalisation of values, and unintended consequences. The paper argues that sustainability policies in sport are shaped by complex stakeholder networks involving organizations such as the IOC, host cities, sponsors, governments, NGOs, activists, and media actors. While sustainability initiatives and knowledge transfer can encourage environmental progress, the study highlights persistent tensions around greenwashing, unequal power dynamics, inconsistent policy implementation, and unintended environmental consequences.

Sport managers and governing bodies should recognize that meaningful sustainability action requires coordinated policies, authentic commitment, and collaboration across diverse stakeholder networks rather than symbolic or performative environmental initiatives.

CITE: Cain, A. (2023). A figurational approach to environmental sustainability in the context of sport. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 5, 1302458. DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1302458