SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GAMES
For more than a century, the modern Olympic Games have been a model for international peace and cooperation. Every two years, nations put aside their differences and send their very best to compete on the world stage, inspiring millions to strive for excellence.
In much the same way, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) offer a vision of the future as it could be: a modern world free of injustice and inequality, with strong institutions and deep respect for the natural world.
Achieving the SDGs by 2030 will require international collaboration on an even greater scale than the Olympics. But as the games have often shown, the spirit of competition and pride can inspire teams and individuals to do incredible things.
The Sustainable Development Games brings together these two institutions, engaging people around the globe in a friendly competition to create a just and sustainable world.
How does it work?
The Sustainable Development Games are open to cities, regions, countries, and schools making measurable progress the SDGs. Each country chooses winners at the national level to advance to a global competition judged by an expert panel, with global awards given during the Summer and Winter Games.
When will it happen?
The first Sustainable Development Games will take place during the 2024 Paris Summer Games, followed by the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. The predictable cadence of the Olympics keeps the SDGs top of mind for participants, while allowing time for ambitious efforts.
How can you get involved?
The Sustainable Development Games is in its early stages, and you have the opportunity to shape what this first-of-its-kind platform becomes. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Make connections to the IOC. Aligning with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is essential to making this platform a success. If you have a contact at the IOC, we’d love to talk with you.
- Join the planning team. We need volunteers to help design this program, connect with potential sponsors, and get the word out among potential contenders worldwide before the 2020 Olympic Games. We can use all skill sets and welcome your support.
- Become a sponsor. As the Sustainable Development Games nears launch, there may be opportunities for corporations to sponsor participating teams or the event overall, linking their own sustainability and SDG efforts to support for local organizations making a difference.
Please join us. To share your ideas or learn more, contact Joseph Dixon, Facilitator, Sustainability Leadership Forum at (404) 257-4177 or joseph@cymplx.com.