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Climate Action on the Pitch and in Politics: G20 & Asia Cup Cricket Go Green
The 2023 G20 Summit in India and ongoing Asia Cup cricket tournament spotlighted parallel sustainability efforts on the global stage and playing field this week.
As world leaders gathered in New Delhi, calls for urgent climate action reverberated both in conference halls and sporting arenas. India assumed the G20 presidency with an agenda emphasizing climate and sustainability, setting the tone for commitments from heads of state. Meanwhile, the Asia Cup cricket event in Sri Lanka and Pakistan saw teams promote eco-initiatives.
The twin events underscored the role leaders in all realms have in driving progress. In impassioned remarks, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres stated "we are in a life-or-death struggle” for the planet’s future. The grave warning came as extreme weather disrupted the G20 summit itself.
In the final summit declaration, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to pursue climate efforts aligned with the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target. Specific commitments included rapidly scaling up clean energy deployment and accelerating transitions to net zero emissions.
A breakthrough $8.5 billion climate financing deal was announced to support South Africa's energy transition, representing the largest such initiative for emerging economies to date. While critics argued for firmer deadlines, the deal offers hope for unlocked climate funding ahead of COP27 climate talks.
Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar echoed the call for urgent action, tweeting “When each of us starts to do our bit, that’s when change happens.” The Asia Cup tournament in Sri Lanka and Pakistan embodied both the climate challenges ahead and potential for progress.
Heavy rains washed out high-profile India vs Pakistan matches, demonstrating global warming's mounting weather impacts. But sustainable solutions were on display too. Pakistan installed solar panels to power stadiums and used recycled water to maintain pitches.
India captain Rohit Sharma arrived for the event in a new electric vehicle, underscoring his promotion of eco-friendly transport. Sharma has also championed wildlife conservation through partnerships with organizations like PETA.
During Asia Cup matches, players wore kits crafted from recycled and sustainable materials. For example, India and Pakistan uniforms incorporated recycled ocean plastics and eco-friendly fabrics respectively.
Cricket governing bodies ICC and BCCI announced sustainability plans for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia and ODI World Cup in India. These initiatives aim to reduce the carbon footprint of major tournaments involving extensive travel.
Sponsorships also expanded sustainability visibility. Booking.com promoted eco-stays for travelers, while beverage partner BIRA 91 pursues a net zero target. Packaging supplier Tetra Pak announced its 'Cartons for Good' program to recycle packaging from cricket events.
The dual events signaled intensifying mobilization on climate action across public and private spheres. While G20 leaders forged ahead on policy consensus and funding, cricketers used their platforms to mobilize eco-action.
In his closing remarks, Indian PM Narendra Modi remarked that “Today's era is not of war. We have adopted the path of taking everyone along.” Echoing that cooperative spirit, the G20 communique endorsed India's "oneness for all" motto.
Other priorities like healthcare, women's empowerment, and economic stability underscored the holistic approach leaders embraced. The summit declaration encapsulated a sweeping global agenda with sustainability at its core.
Following the mantle of leadership, India and Prime Minister Modi now look ahead to critical G20 negotiations next year on climate, biodiversity and sustainability. Meanwhile, all eyes turn to Brazil as governments prepare to build on the G20 climate groundwork for the 2024 summit.
Both global governing bodies and sporting superstars have pivotal roles to play in accelerating progress. Through bold commitments and public engagement, the battle to secure our shared future can be won.