Ottawa – The Canada Games Council (CGC) is proud to unveil its comprehensive Environmental Sustainability Strategy, outlining a clear roadmap to reduce the environmental impact of the Canada Games and to promote climate action through more sustainable practices across the Canada Games ecosystem.
The new strategy, available at canadagames.ca, reflects the commitment of the Canada Games to preserve Canada’s sports landscape amid mounting climate challenges. Our vision is to integrate environmental sustainability into every aspect of the Canada Games, uniting participants, partners and fans in collective impact and climate action.
“The Canada Games have a powerful platform to drive meaningful, lasting change for people and the planet,” said CGC President and CEO Kelly Ann-Paul. “The strategy underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship and building lasting legacies in our communities. Our Host Societies adoption and implementation of this strategy is key to our success.”
The groundwork for the strategy began in 2022, and the CGC has been actively working towards achieving our goals. Developed in alignment with federal, provincial and territorial government expectations established for the Canada Games, the strategy outlines four key commitments to environmental sustainability, via three pillars.
Key Commitments
- Reduce Emissions: The CGC commits to targeting net-zero emissions by 2040 and targeting emission reductions of 50% by 2030, and supporting Host Societies with Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission reduction goals.
- Measure and Report: We pledge to track and publicly disclose annual climate footprints and progress toward reduction and mitigation.
- Lead by Example: We will develop tools and resources to support the Canada Games and promote environmental leadership across the sport system.
- Forge Relationships: We will foster collaboration among athletes, Host Societies, partners and communities to drive collective action.
Pillars and Focus Areas:
Energy and Climate: Reducing environmental impact through responsible emission measurement, management and climate action:
- GHG Emissions
- Energy Efficiency
- Air Quality
Circularity and Waste: Promoting circularity and minimizing waste:
- Plastic Reduction
- Waste Reduction
- Circular Resource Use
Natural Regeneration: Protecting and restoring the environment:
- Climate Adaptation
- Water Quality
- Landscapes and Protected Areas
Financial investments from the Government of Canada have allowed the CGC to build capacity and expertise in this area, as well as offset GHG emissions associated with participant travel of the 2022 and 2023 Canada Games. This year, the organization will also embark on a new, multi-Games partnership with Computers for Success Canada (CFSC) through the 2031 Canada Games, which focuses on the shared objectives of enhancing circularity and reducing waste in the planning and execution of the Canada Games.
As part of its commitment to shaping a greener future for Canadian sport, the CGC will soon unveil a Sustainable Sport Event Toolkit – a resource that will support the Canada Games Host Societies and the Canadian sport community in adopting more sustainable event hosting practices.
The Canada Games will be a catalyst for climate action, demonstrating sustainable practices and inspiring others in sport to follow. Together with our partners, we are building a legacy that goes beyond competition – one that makes a meaningful difference for the environment and the sports we love.
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About the Canada Games Council
The Canada Games Council, a private, non-profit organization, is the governing body for the Canada Games. Held once every two years, alternating between winter and summer, the Canada Games represent the highest level of national competition for up and coming Canadian athletes. The Games have been hosted in every province at least once since their inception in Quebec City during Canada’s Centennial in 1967. The Games are proud of their contribution to Canada’s sport development system, in addition to their lasting legacy of sport facilities, community pride and national unity. The organization of the Canada Games is made possible through the tireless dedication of local Host Societies and the contribution and support of the federal, provincial/territorial and host municipal governments.
The office is located in Ottawa, Ontario, on the traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishinabek People.
Media Contact
Courtney Pollock
Senior Advisor, Communications & Digital Media
Canada Games Council
cpollock@canadagames.ca