Social Responsibility
Social Responsibility
European Aquatics and Portuguese Swimming Federation are committed to set a benchmark for aquatics events by delivering a set of sustainable practices which aim to:
- Minimise the environmental impact of the 2026 European Aquatics Events
- Foster social and economic legacy for the benefit of the host local and wider community
- Inspire the local and wider community to adopt healthy and active styles through the Aquatics Social Responsibility Strategy
- Promote the sustainable development goals as a catalyst for sustainable development through sports
Our organizations recognise that maintaining a clean environment and conserving water are essential for ensuring a healthy and sustainable world, which is crucial for the well-being of athletes and society. We are also aware that achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals requires significant and transformative actions to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.
We aim to make a positive contribution to the promotion of a sustainable future for aquatics, therefore all participants, team members, staff, volunteers and spectators are encouraged to support a joint ambition and commitment to sustainability by embarking on a journey to reduce their individual carbon footprint.
This Sustainability & Legacy Plan is aligned with the sustainability goals and policies of the City of Oeiras, Portugal and Portuguese Swimming Federation, and will be implemented with a focus on the five following key priorities:
SUSTAINABILITY KEY PRIORITY
Green Task Force
SGD & RELEVANT STRAND
Environmental
SGD: 12, 13, 15
INITIATIVES
- A team of trained volunteers will be present on-site to support and promote sustainable practices throughout the event.
- Their role will include providing guidance to participants and spectators on correct waste separation, encouraging the use of reusable bottles by directing them to water refill points, and raising awareness on water and energy-saving behaviours in key areas such as changing rooms and spectator areas.
- This on-site support will help ensure that sustainability measures are clearly communicated and effectively followed during the event.
Sustainable Fun Zone
SGD & RELEVANT STRAND
Environmental
SGD: 12, 13, 17
INITIATIVES
- A designated Sustainable Fun Zone will be created within the venue to promote sustainability awareness in an engaging and interactive way.
- The area will include visual communication materials and interactive elements, such as themed message boards and photo opportunities with sustainability-related messages, encouraging participants and spectators to actively engage with environmental topics.
- This approach aims to increase visibility of sustainability initiatives and promote positive behaviours through informal education and participant interaction.Engage participants with interactive, eco-friendly activities.
Eliminate the Plastic
SGD & RELEVANT STRAND
Environmental
SGD: 12, 13, 14
INITIATIVES
- Single-use plastic bottles will not be distributed during the event.
- All teams and participants will be encouraged to bring their own reusable bottles, supported by the availability of water refill points throughout the venue.
- Additional measures will include promoting responsible consumption behaviours and reducing unnecessary plastic use across event operations.
Waste Management
SGD & RELEVANT STRAND
Environmental
SGD: 12, 13, 14
INITIATIVES
- A waste management system will be implemented on-site, including clearly identified recycling stations for different waste streams (paper/cardboard, plastic/metal and general waste).
- Waste collection points will be strategically placed across the venue to encourage proper waste separation by participants and spectators.
- Clear signage will support correct disposal behaviours and contribute to reducing the overall environmental impact of the event.
Sustainable Mobility
SGD & RELEVANT STRAND
Environmental
SGD: 11, 12, 13
INITIATIVES
- Information on sustainable transport options will be provided to participants and spectators through official event communication channels, including the event bulletin.
- The venue is accessible by public transport, including train and bus connections, and attendees will be encouraged to use these options, as well as walking, whenever possible, in order to reduce traffic and environmental impact.
Further information about Sustainability & Legacy for this event will be shared through the official communication channels, including the European Aquatics and the Portuguese Swimming Federation.
Contacts
LOCAL ORGANISING COMMITTEE
Susana Castro | susana.castro@fpnatacao.pt
EUROPEAN AQUATICS
Silvia Costa | silviacosta@europeanaquatics.org