Celebrating Sustainable Virtus Global Games 2023 Legacy Story on ‘Earth Day’

Today, the 22nd of April, is celebrated as ‘Earth Day’ around the world. And we want to celebrate Virtus Global Games 2023 (GG2023), which marked a significant milestone in the history of Virtus events through the establishment of a dedicated Sustainable Development Team within the Local Organising Committee (LOC). The team’s mission was to integrate sustainability principles across all areas of event delivery – including volunteers, accommodation, transport, catering, and sport operations, while ensuring these initiatives did not create unnecessary barriers or additional burdens for participants.

The team consisted of six members, each taking on specific responsibilities aligned with their expertise. Roles included a General Coordinator, International Conference Manager, Virtus Forest Manager, Eco Ambassador Manager, Clean Walk Manager, and Communication Manager. Their work was supported by volunteers from medico-social establishments who assisted with waste sorting and environmental activities throughout the event.

Waste Management and Food Sustainability

Waste management was a major focus during GG2023, particularly in dining areas where waste separation systems were introduced.

Food waste was sorted after meals with the support of the AREMACS association and the City of Vichy. Visual guides were placed on bin lids to help participants correctly sort their waste. Bins with two compartments were installed to support waste separation. Around 1,300 kg of food waste was composted and later reused in city gardens. Partnerships were established with local organisations, including the Vichy Food Bank and Restos du Cœur, to redistribute surplus food. Approximately 2,000 meals were donated to support people in need.

These initiatives demonstrated how large sporting events can minimise waste while supporting the local community.

Water Consumption and Plastic Reduction

To reduce single-use plastics during the event, 2,500 reusable water bottles and transport cups were included in athlete welcome packs. Water fountains were installed at sports venues, meal areas, and reception locations. During the Games, 652 water carboys (19 litres each) were consumed, totalling 12,388 litres of water.

This initiative prevented the equivalent waste of 12,388 single-use plastic bottles

Sustainable Transport and Venue Planning

Transportation and logistics were carefully planned to reduce environmental impact. Shuttle buses were scheduled to transport athletes between accommodation, competition venues, and the airport. Event venues, including competition and meal sites, were located close to each other to minimise travel distances.

Clean Walk Initiative

The Clean Walk initiative further strengthened the environmental commitment of GG2023.

Participants and volunteers worked together to collect litter around sports facilities and the convention centre after activities. The initiative received strong recognition from the City of Vichy, which acknowledged its positive influence and expressed interest in applying similar practices to future sporting events.

Environmental Awareness and Education

GG2023 also promoted sustainability through communication and educational initiatives. Two international conferences were organised, focusing on sustainability and inclusive sport. Visual communication materials highlighting sustainable development were displayed throughout the event. Event results and programs were provided digitally, reducing the need for printed materials.

The Virtus Forest: A Symbol of Sustainability

One of the most symbolic environmental initiatives was the creation of the first Virtus Forest. Athletes, volunteers, organisers, and elected officials came together to plant 100 trees, including holly and hornbeam species, representing unity, sustainability, and the lasting legacy of the Games.

The Palaver Tree: A Space for Shared Dreams

The Palaver Tree became a powerful symbol of dialogue and hope during the Games. Participants were invited to write messages representing their dreams and aspirations. These messages ranged from personal goals to broader ambitions for inclusion in sport, including:

• Aspirations to win gold medals.
• Calls for increased representation of athletes with intellectual impairments in the Paralympic Games.
• Advocacy for greater recognition and integration of people with disabilities in sport.

The Palaver Tree was later donated by the French Federation of Adapted Sport (FFSA) to CREPS Vichy, where it will continue to symbolise the achievements of athletes with intellectual impairments and/with autism.

Community Legacy

GG2023 also prioritised leaving a meaningful legacy for the local community.

• At the end of the event, logistical equipment was donated to sports associations in Vichy.
• The remaining event soft toys were donated to the local sports committee, ensuring resources continued to benefit the community after the Games.

A Sustainable Future for Virtus Events

The impact of GG2023 extended beyond the event itself. The initiatives implemented in Vichy demonstrated that sustainability can be successfully integrated into international sporting events without requiring excessive resources.

As Virtus celebrates its 40th anniversary, we want to celebrate GG2023, which was not only a successful global sporting event but also a turning point in Virtus’ commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. We want to urge our members to integrate sustainability and make the impact of the sports events greater. Sustainable initiatives do not need to be complex or resource-heavy; simple actions such as reducing waste, encouraging recycling, using digital materials, providing water refill stations, and partnering with local community organisations can make a meaningful difference. By embedding sustainability into event planning, LOCs not only reduce environmental impact but also inspire athletes, volunteers, and communities to adopt responsible practices. Each Virtus event can become a platform to promote inclusion, responsibility, and care for our planet—creating a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the competition itself. 

For more informations about the UN SDGs and how to make events sustainable, visit Virtus’ sustainability page.