Harnessing the power of sport to protect nature and biodiversity

Why should the sport and physical activity sector be interested in nature and biodiversity? This was the question I asked myself when I signed up for the recent British Association for Sustainable Sport (BASIS) webinar.

BASIS has a clear vision: to harness the power of sport to build a sustainable future. Their mission is to empower sport in the UK to become a world leader in sustainability, with the urgency dictated by science. This month’s webinar focused on nature and biodiversity, and I was shocked to learn that the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, with 16 species on the verge of extinction.

Dom Goggins from BASIS led the discussion: “So many of our sports are tied to the natural world. All of these sports rely heavily on a healthy ecosystem.” This simple but powerful statement reinforced the idea that protecting biodiversity isn’t just an ethical responsibility—it’s integral to the future of sport.

The webinar featured insights from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the R&A, the golf governing body. They spoke about their collaboration to ensure that golf can protect and improve the natural world. One key takeaway was the shift in perception—rather than turning golf courses into nature reserves, the goal should be to give nature a home within these spaces.

Another example shared was from the horse racing industry, highlighting how tracks can be adapted to support biodiversity and nature conservation. But what about sports that don’t have large green spaces to work with?

A fascinating case study came from Canary Wharf, which has spent the last 30 years embedding sustainability into its urban landscape. From designing buildings and open spaces with conservation and connectivity in mind to advocating biodiversity, reducing waste, and promoting energy efficiency, their approach provides valuable lessons for sports venues of all sizes.

Sport has a unique opportunity to be a force for good in the fight against biodiversity loss. Whether it’s a major event or a small intervention at a local club, every effort to integrate sustainability into sport can contribute to a healthier planet.

As the conversation about nature and biodiversity in sport continues, one thing is clear: the sector has the power and responsibility to make a difference. The question now is, how will we rise to the challenge?

We have encountered some interesting sports organisations working to protect nature. One example is Sports for Nature, which aims to deliver transformative action for nature across sports by 2030. This will enable sports to champion nature and contribute to its protection and restoration.

buddle also has a page about biodiversity and why it’s important to support it in our outdoor spaces.

It is also great to see golf clubs across the South Downs National Park come together to fight biodiversity loss. You can read more about the work being done here.