Sustainability was one of the key topics on the IOF Joint Meeting. IOF Stefano Bisoffi (ITA), Chairperson of the IOF Environment and Sustainability Commission, presented the work of the commission including the new IOF Sustainability Policy and the participation in the Sports for Climate Action.
The new IOF Sustainability Policy was approved by the IOF Council at its latest meeting and will be published soon on orienteering.sport. The IOF has declared sustainability as one of its three basic values. The Policy also declares that the IOF intends to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda and recognises the value of the Paris Agreement.
The IOF Sustainability Policy consists of the following principles:
- Compliance with the law.
- Protection of nature and the environment.
- Limited of use of natural resources, reduction of waste and elimination of pollutants.
- Climate change mitigation.
- Healthy lifestyles.
- Dialogue with stakeholders.
- Procurement and sponsorship.
- Continuous improvement.
- Spreading the principles and implementing practices.
The IOF participates in the Sports for Climate Action and is committed to the implementation of the following five principles:
- Undertake systematic efforts to promote greater environmental responsibility;
- Reduce overall climate impact;
- Educate for climate action;
- Promote sustainable and responsible consumption;
- Advocate for climate action through communication.
The IOF is also working on an updated travel policy for IOF employees, IOF Council members, IOF Commission members, IOF Senior Event Advisers and Other IOF volunteers acting on behalf of IOF. The policy declares that all travel on IOF business should take into consideration and balance sustainability principles.