The second Sports for Nature reporting cycle has shown clear signs of growth and maturity among Framework signatories in how they engage with its principles and structure their internal commitments to conserve and protect biodiversity.
Among those reporting in the 2024 cycle, the vast majority highlighted actions aligned with the Sports for Nature Framework’s four principles. Specifically, 84% reported work on nature protection (Principle 1) and 74% on nature restoration (Principle 2).
Green procurement (Principle 3), reported by 64%, appeared to be a more complex area of action, as reflected in the responses. However, 90% of signatories had developed education and communication materials related to their nature-focused efforts (Principle 4).
The findings under each of the four principles revealed a consistent pattern: activities such as communication and information sharing were widely implemented, likely due to their relative ease. In contrast, more technical measures – such as conducting an environmental assessment (Principle 1), developing a biodiversity action plan (Principle 2), collaborating with suppliers on a green procurement policy (Principle 3) and implementing stakeholder engagement plans (Principle 4) – were undertaken by fewer than half of the signatories.
Many signatories are aiming to close these gaps. Forty percent plan to publish a formal sustainability strategy by the end of 2025. Additionally, 20% are expanding educational initiatives and 25% are developing nature-specific key performance indicators (KPIs).
Despite this positive momentum, challenges persist. One in five signatories reported major funding constraints, while 25% face unstable financial support. Only 5% currently employ full-time staff with biodiversity expertise.
The 2024 reporting cycle used a slightly revised methodology, asking signatories more structured questions and providing specific prompts compared to the 2023 process. Despite this, 90% of signatories required to report submitted their responses.
In total, 60 Sports for Nature signatories were required to report in 2024, with 54 fulfilling the requirement. An additional three signatories submitted voluntary reports, bringing the total number of reports to 57 – more than double the number received in 2023 (26).
In response to these findings, Sports for Nature will focus its resources on building capacity across the network. This will include developing more practical tools, offering expert support and facilitating peer learning to help all signatories strengthen their efforts.
Access the full report here.