40 athletes from many different industries around the world call for action against climate change.
Although climate change affects the entire world, it stands out as one of the biggest challenges athletes face.
40 “elite” athletes around the world called on governments to strengthen measures to combat the climate crisis ahead of the “United Nations Climate Change Conference” (COP30) to be held in Brazil. The athletes call themselves “Adapt2Win,” receiving support from the Gates Foundation and the Wellcome Trust.
“An UNPREDICTABLE COMPETITION” Brazilian female soccer player Tamires Dias believes that climate change poses the biggest challenges an athlete must face. The 38-year-old athlete said: “In sports, we learn to adapt to every situation. New teams, new tactics, new opponents… However, the climate crisis is a very different opponent. It is stronger, more unpredictable and a challenge that no one can face alone.” he said.
“IT IS MY PERSONAL PROBLEM” British-Jamaican footballer Raheem Sterling has spoken about the impact of climate change on the Caribbean. The experienced actor said: “This is a personal matter for me. I have seen how climate change changes life in the Caribbean. Together with the foundation I founded, we are trying to take preventive measures against mosquito-borne diseases. In the process, I have seen the differences that can be made by working together. The COP30 meeting is an opportunity for governments to get behind these solutions.” he said.
“EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED” Nigerian footballer Kenneth Omeruo claims that climate change has changed everything in his country. The 32-year-old football player said: “I grew up in Nigeria. In the past, you could predict everything about the weather. When it rained, the trees would increase. But in recent years, everything has changed. The weather is unpredictable now. Society is in trouble. Even football fields face floods and droughts. Climate change has become something we live with every day.” He expressed his views verbally.
“EVERYONE MUST BE RESPONSIBLE” Ana Toni, Executive Director of the COP30 summit, welcomed this call from athletes. “Adapt2Win reminds us that every sector, from sports to government, must do their part to fight climate change,” said Toni. LOST 417 BILLION DOLLARS Athletes signed to make a short film about the impact of climate change on sports.
According to this organization's statement, the sports industry will lose $417 billion by 2024 due to climate change. However, less than 10% of global climate finance is used for implementation measures on this issue.
