08th June 2026
How Active Sussex is taking action on environmental sustainability
At Active Sussex, we believe that creating a healthier, more active county goes hand‑in‑hand with protecting the environment we all depend on.
As the sector steps up its response to the climate and nature crises, we’re committed to playing our part, not only by reducing our own impact but by supporting partners across Sussex to do the same.
Here are some of the key actions we’re taking as part of our ongoing sustainability journey.
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
We’ve joined the Sussex Innovation Centre’s Green Network, giving us access to expert guidance and peer support as we work to reduce emissions from our operations.
Our office already has strong foundations in place, including:
- Excellent public transport links
- On‑site electric vehicle charging
- Secure cycle storage
- Showers and facilities that support active travel
These features help our team make lower‑carbon travel choices every day, and we’re continuing to explore further steps to reduce our footprint.
Promoting a Circular Economy
To cut waste and reduce our reliance on single‑use materials, we’ve changed the way we approach events and promotional activity.
Active Sussex now:
- No longer purchases clothing for specific events
- Ensures all new promotional materials – such as banners – are non‑event‑specific, reusable, and made from recyclable materials
This shift helps us reduce unnecessary consumption while modelling sustainable practice for the wider sector.
Improving Blue and Green Spaces
Nature plays a vital role in supporting physical activity, wellbeing and community connection. To deepen our understanding of this relationship, we’ve been working with the Knepp Wildland Foundation and the Weald to Waves programme.
Through this partnership, we’ve:
- Gained new insight into biodiversity and nature recovery
- Explored how thriving ecosystems can enhance opportunities to be active
- Begun sharing this learning with facilities, clubs and venues across Sussex
Our aim is to help create places where people and nature can flourish together.
Tackling Climate‑Related Inequalities
Climate change doesn’t affect everyone equally. We’re learning more about how environmental issues disproportionately impact under‑served communities, from access to safe, free spaces to be active, to the effects of extreme weather on participation.
Active Sussex is now:
- Sharing this learning with partners across the county
- Exploring ways to reduce these impacts
- Supporting approaches such as improving access to free places and spaces, and team volunteering to strengthen community resilience
This work is helping us ensure that climate action and equity go hand in hand.
Celebrating and Inspiring Sector‑Wide Action
We know that many clubs, groups and organisations across Sussex are already leading the way on sustainability. To shine a light on this brilliant work, we’ve introduced a dedicated Environmental Sustainability Award at the annual Sussex Sport and Physical Activity Awards.
This new category allows us to:
- Recognise and reward best practice
- Celebrate local innovation
- Inspire others to take action
We’ll continue to share good news stories, practical examples and important updates through our events, forums and newsletters to help partners learn from one another and build momentum across the system.
Our Commitment
Sustainability is a long‑term journey, and we’re proud to be taking meaningful steps, both within our organisation and across the wider sector.
By reducing our impact, championing nature, tackling inequalities and celebrating local leadership, we’re helping to build a more resilient, active and environmentally responsible Sussex.