Water Polo Australia unveils its inaugural Climate Action Strategy

September 1, 2023

With Water Polo Australia recognising that their sport is not exempt from the impacts of climate change and that their sport’s impact on the climate is not insignificant, they are pleased to present their Climate Action Strategy for the next three years.

WPA acknowledges they have a responsibility to ensure their sport operates within and protects the environment they play in.

WPA Board Director Susie Smith shares “today, we dive into a new era of responsibility and sustainability as we unveil Water Polo Australia's inaugural Climate Action Strategy.

“Just like our athletes adapt to the currents of the game, we must adapt to the changing climate. Together, we rise to the challenge, doing our part to safeguard our planet for generations to come.”

“By leading in climate action, Water Polo Australia contributes to a larger legacy. It's about leaving a positive impact beyond the sport itself, showing that the organisation cares for the planet and took steps to make a difference.”

Former National Age Group Program player, and ACU Cronulla Sharks representative Kal Glanznig was part of the WPA Climate Action Panel, who worked collaboratively to develop the strategy.

Glanznig adds “Climate change ranks as one of the top concerns and stressors for young people in Australia.

“It makes me immensely proud as a player to know that our peak sporting body of Water Polo Australia is taking this leadership. Inspiring the community and making our mark on the global sporting world.

“As a former Aussie Junior and current AWL player, it has been a pleasure to represent the player community on the Panel and see the expertise, positivity and plans to position Water Polo Australia as a key team player, as we seek to decarbonise Australian and global sport.

“Like in the pool, we shouldn’t point fingers to blame but instead we should take accountability to do what is in our control and encourage others to join the team, exactly what has been achieved here with this Strategy.

“As we have seen with the 2019 fires and recent flooding across our nation, climate change poses a risk to water polo participation, access and assets. It already is, and will continue to impact water polo and other sports across Australia and the world.

“Hope lies in action, and if we all play our part I am optimistic we can solve this once in a lifetime challenge of climate change and continue playing the sport we love.”

The Water Polo Australia Climate Action Strategy will focus on seven Initiatives:

Climate Governance Framework - Demonstrate climate leadership in sport
Education and Advocacy - Advocate for practical climate action
Measuring our emissions - Understand our carbon footprint and report transparently
Building Climate Resilience - Resilient to the potential physical impacts from climate change
Reducing emissions (procurement and waste) - Lighten our carbon footprint and report transparently on progress
Reducing emissions (transport) - Lighten our carbon footprint and report transparently on progress
Reducing emissions (energy) - Lighten our carbon footprint and report transparently on progress.

Informed by the expertise of the Climate Action Panel, the Water Polo Australia Board has formed a position on Climate Change and collectively are proud to lead the sport in building long-term resilience and sustainability into their core business.

For more information on Water Polo Australia’s Climate Action Strategy and Water Polo Australia's Social Impact Strategies.

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