The IBU Sustainability Athlete Ambassador Jacques Jefferies recently attended the 44th European Olympic Committees (EOC) Seminar in Montenegro, where he shared his insights on the role of athletes in advancing sustainable practices in sports. Jacques, a strong advocate for environmental change within the sporting world, represented the IBU’s commitment to driving sustainability and engaging athletes in shaping a greener future.

At the seminar, Jacques emphasized the unique position of athletes to influence change, both within their sport and beyond. Drawing on his experiences as an elite biathlete and an advocate, he spoke about the importance of creating sustainable systems within sports organizations and how these initiatives can inspire broader societal shifts. His participation reflects the IBU's broader mission of promoting sustainability at all levels of biathlon.

In a reflection on his participation, Jacques shared in his personal diary "OFF The Range":

As athletes, we are at the heart of sporting events, and our voices have power. We see the impacts of climate change firsthand - from unreliable snow conditions to extreme weather - and we must take part in the solution. Engaging with key decision-makers at the EOC Seminar allowed me to advocate for systemic change, ensuring that future generations of athletes can compete in a world where sport remains sustainable.

During his presentation, Jacques outlined practical steps sports organizations can take to reduce their environmental footprints, such as integrating sustainable materials, improving event logistics, and promoting athlete-led initiatives. His message was clear: athletes are not only competitors but also stewards of the environment, with the potential to drive meaningful change within their communities.

The EOC Seminar provided a platform for dialogue among athletes, sports administrators, and environmental experts, fostering a shared understanding of how the sports sector can contribute to a more sustainable world. Jacques participation further strengthens the IBU’s role in these efforts, aligning with the federation’s long-standing commitment to sustainability as outlined in the IBU’s Sustainability Strategy 2030.

Jacques concluded his experience with optimism, noting: