Green Athletics

This is an optional Innovation & Leadership credit. These credits recognize exemplary practices and performance above and beyond what is recognized in standard credits and may not be relevant to every institution. Scoring in the Innovation and Leadership section is capped at 4 bonus points total.


Credit Language

IN 16: Green Athletics – version 2.2

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a formal athletics program have to be in place, or can we count practices related to green athletics?

Yes, a formal program must be in place and green athletics practices must be followed regularly. Simply referencing occasional green athletics efforts in the absence of a formal program is not sufficient.

Does certification of athletic teams have to be in place in order to earn points? 

Athletic team certification, or formal recognition of sports teams that integrate sustainability into their culture and practices, is not a requirement to earn full or partial points under this credit. To learn more about sustainability team certifications, see Yale University’s Green Team Certification Program and reporting examples below for University of Alberta and UC Santa Barbara.

Example Responses

  • Bentley University – Good documentation provided for each area with a yes response. Good reporting example of applying green building (stadium) construction across a number of areas including transportation and education.
  • University of Alberta – Comprehensive documentation on green athletics, including an athletic team certification program.
  • University of California, Santa Barbara – Comprehensive documentation provided, including detail on a green sports and athletics certification program.
  • University of Texas at Austin – The descriptive content is organized according to each area with a Yes response, and a sustainability in athletics webpage is included.

Common Issues Identified During Review

  • An active green athletics program must be in place. Simply referencing green athletics efforts is not sufficient in the absence of a formal program.

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