Sustainability programme for the Women’s U19 World Floorball Championships unveiled

Sustainability is a key theme for the Women’s U19 World Floorball Championships 2024 in Lahti, Finland.

On May 8, the opening day of the tournament, the International Floorball Federation (IFF) will partner with the City of Lahti to host a sustainability seminar. This event will highlight the GAMES project group’s efforts, where the IFF serves as a sports partner, to explore ways for sports organisations and events to minimise their carbon footprint.

Tibero Daddi, associate professor at the Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, the project’s technical partner, will offer an overview of the progress GAMES has made since it was established in 2022. 

Floorball’s contribution to sustainability will be outlined by Tero Kalsta of the IFF, while Pekka Ilmivalta will share the work being done in Finnish floorball. Sustainability in the host city of Lahti and sustainability in sport sponsorship will also be addressed during the seminar.

The tournament will boost efforts to collect used sports equipment in the Lahti region for MLL, an NGO dedicated to promoting the wellbeing of children and families. This initiative not only enhances sporting opportunities for underprivileged youth but also supports the principles of a circular economy.

During the championships, there will be a theme day for youngsters in which they will have the opportunity to participate in a recycling game and take part in sustainability trivia.

Additionally, the FairFloorball campaign, launched in 2021, will be featured around the competition venue. This campaign encompasses three elements—governance, social, and environmental—and encourages everyone involved in floorball to act responsibly and uphold its values.

Tero Kalsta, sales coordinator for the IFF, said: “Sustainability is a core strategic priority for the IFF, and it’s fantastic to see our major events uphold and promote values of environmental responsibility. The young athletes taking part in Lahti represent the future of our sport, and it is up to us to make sure that future is a bright one.”