The IBU has published its Sustainability Report 2024 and Climate Transition Action Plan (CTAP) as the federation continues to receive international recognition as a leader in sustainability in sport.

The IBU Sustainability Report 2024, published here, details the far-reaching initiatives undertaken in 2024 under the framework of the IBU Sustainability Strategy 2020-2030. To complement this strategy and to support the IBU’s climate goals, including reducing the sports emissions by 50% and reaching net-zero emissions by 2040, the newly published CTAP sets out a plan to ensure that biathlon remains a sustainable and environmentally responsible sport for future generations.

Among the initiatives described in the 2024 report is the outcome of the first year of implementation of the Sustainability Charter for Organising Committees. A total of 14 OCs, predominantly World Cup and World Championships hosts, signed up to the voluntary Charter. Of the signatories, 64% had a sustainability plan in writing, 79% have waste management strategies, 50% provide sustainability training and 93% of venues ensure accessible transport.

Another success reported is the ongoing work of the IBU Snow Network in enhancing sustainable snow management practices at IBU venues. Since the network was launched four years ago, and thanks to the sharing of best practice to learn from each other and grow efficiencies, venues have needed on average 2,600m3 less snow per year.

These initiatives among many others have seen the IBU’s granted international recognition. Notably, the IBU received the Commended distinction at the 2024 IOC Climate Action Awards for its ground-breaking efforts in collaboration with broadcasters to measure and reduce carbon footprints.

More recently, the BMW IBU World Championships Biathlon 2025 in Lenzerheide, earned the globally recognised albert certification for sustainable host broadcasting operations. Hosted by BAFTA, albert certification is a leading environmental standard for the TV and film industry, recognizing organizations that undertake a carbon footprint assessment of their production and implement a Carbon Action Plan to minimize their impacts. This milestone, achieved by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and ACTUA Sport - the host broadcaster for the championships – in cooperation with the Lenzerheide Organizing Committee and with support from EBU Members, marks a 67% reduction in carbon emissions compared to standard broadcasting practices, with significant impact across travel, energy use, and waste management.

Sustainability was embedded across every aspect of the BMW IBU World Championships Lenzerheide 2025 World Championships, as the event showcased the convergence between high performance and environmental stewardship. Initiatives implemented at the event included:

Biodiversity Protection: Sensitive dry meadows and moorland areas were safeguarded through event planning in collaboration with environmental experts. Courses and event set up were adapted to avoid fragile ecosystems, and the event mascot, Lenzi the Grouse, helped raise awareness for nature conservation and biodiversity.

Sustainable Infrastructure & Energy: The mix of temporary and permanent structures was designed with long-term use opportunities top of mind. Certified green electricity from hydro plants powered the event, and the temporary infrastructure, such as the fan hospitality tents, were heated with pellets.

Eco-Friendly Mobility: Spectators were encouraged to use sustainable mobility options, with free public transport in the Lenzerheide region included in the entrance tickets. Parking on site was severely limited, so the fans were offered a free-of-charge park and ride service from Thusis to the venue to reduce CO₂ emissions from travel.

For more Lenzerheide 2025 highlights, click here.

Photo: IBU/Manzoni