How sport management can address sustainability: Creating and testing a scale

Abstract

Sports and sustainability are two important aspects of modern society that are sometimes seen as conflicting (e.g., the large amounts of resource use and wastes for mega events like the Olympics can be problematic even though the event is popular with many). The relationship between the two is complex and multifaceted. In this study, best practices that sport management can apply to address sustainability are identified and assessed. In particular, we seek practical solutions for sustainability in the sports sector and present them to sports managers. The study involves three main steps: 1) a comprehensive review of previous studies and opinions of experts to identify initial relevant variables (25 variables); 2) application of factor analysis (FA) by the exploratory factor analysis test in SPSS 22.0 to create a new scale, after which five factors with 20 items remained; and 3) performance of confirmatory factor analysis using smart-PLS on the data. Eventually, in the revised CFA test and after elimination of one variable, the model was approved. The results reveal five key sport management actions and practices to address sustainability: implementing sustainable practices, educating stakeholders, developing policies, monitoring and reporting, and research and innovation. By addressing the environmental impact of sports events and promoting sustainable practices within the sports industry, a more sustainable future for both sports and the planet can be attained.