How can you promote sustainability and accessibility in sports?

Brands like Decathlon are implementing "buy-back" system allowing customers to sell back their items in Europe (France, Belgium...). Material directions aimed at this type of system should be moulded according to the following material design principles: - Implementing closed-loop materials (metals, especially aluminum) over open-loop ones; - Avoiding biodegradable materials (especially plastics), which don't fit a circular system for the moment with the current state of tech; - Pairing low-impact material directions to high-maintenance parts/components elegible for repairing and refurbishing.

Brands are getting creative with textiles like Piñatex, made from pineapple fibres, to make sports clothing. There's also aerogel, an ultra-light material that's not only green but also provides fantastic insulation and impact resistance. When you incorporate aerogels into sports equipment, such as cycling helmets or ski gear, you can improve safety and sustainability simultaneously. But sustainability in sports isn't just about the materials used in gear and clothing. It goes beyond that. Take the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, for instance. It's a great example of sustainable architecture, using solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, which not only reduce energy consumption but save water—sets a new standard for sports arenas.

Accessible repair guides are key for empowering users to carry out repairs themselves—whether through online tutorials or intuitive mobile applications, providing clear instructions ensures that even those with limited technical expertise can maintain sports equipment effectively. Incorporating easily replaceable wear components, such as grips, straps, or padding, also prolongs the lifespan of the equipment—offering replacement kits or spare parts through retail channels also helps with maintenance and repair. Compatibility and interchangeability across different models or generations of equipment are also crucial—consistency in sizing, attachment mechanisms, and interfaces enables users to interchange components or accessories easily.

Many brands and sports venues are stepping up by incorporating universal design principles in their products and services. The FlyEase line of shoes by Nike offers hands-free entry and exit systems, making them accessible for individuals with disabilities or limited dexterity. Molten is a sports equipment manufacturer that produces a volleyball with integrated bells, allowing individuals with visual impairments to participate in volleyball games. Beep baseball is a modified version of baseball designed for individuals with visual impairments—the ball emits a beeping sound, and the bases emit buzzing sounds to guide players.

It's great to see that universal design principles are starting to take root in UK sports venues. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, for instance, boasts "Changing Places" facilities, providing spacious and fully accessible restrooms for individuals with complex needs. Going beyond accessible facilities, the use of sensory rooms, like those at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, ensures that fans with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the game in comfort. Wembley Stadium in London has introduced sensory backpacks equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and communication cards for fans with sensory sensitivities.