Sustainability in paddle sport goes beyond daily training. It is supported by science-based rating tools, structured methodologies, and circular economy principles which are most powerfully demonstrated in major international competitions. Delivering a sustainable world-class event is complex, requiring the coordination of multiple stakeholders, including organisers, athletes, officials, managers, and fans, all working together towards a shared environmental vision.
How can a sustainability vision be transformed into practical actions at a large-scale international sporting event? How can organisers effectively connect and engage a diverse network of stakeholders to deliver meaningful impact?
If you are interested in sport, sustainability, and climate action, this webinar offers a unique opportunity to explore these questions from different perspectives.
Date: 24 April 2026
Time: 09:00 CET
Register for free by clicking: here
Recording: pending
About the ICF Slalom World Championships Sydney 2025
The ICF Slalom World Championships Sydney 2025 took place from 29 September to 4 October 2025 in Sydney, Australia, bringing together 232 athletes from 41 nations.
Sustainability was embedded throughout the event, with a wide range of initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact and promote responsible practices. These included water refill stations to reduce single-use plastics, recycling and composting systems, and the use of a venue with a lasting legacy from the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Climate-friendly transport options such as Park & Ride programmes were promoted, alongside site tours to connect participants with both the sport and the natural environment.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate how sustainability can be effectively integrated into paddle sport events, creating lasting benefits for the community, the sport, and the environment.
Webinar Goals
Join this 60-minute interactive webinar to explore the sustainability vision, key initiatives, and success factors behind the World Championships in Sydney.
During the session, the speaker(s) will share their experience, progress, and insights, explaining how sustainability visions can be successfully translated into practical actions at a world-class sporting event. The discussion will also highlight key outcomes and the long-term impact of these initiatives.
The webinar will feature short presentations from expert speakers, followed by a live Q&A session with the audience.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate how sustainability vision can be translated into practical actions at a major international competition.
- Explore key sustainability initiatives implemented at Sydney 2025.
- Share data, results, and environmental impacts from the event.
- Highlight the long-term legacy for the community, sport, and environment.
- Exchange knowledge and best practices across the paddle sport community.
Register for free by clicking: here
Dr. Cecilia L. Farias (ICF Host) | |
Since 2016, she has served as the first female Vice-President of International Canoe Federation (ICF), re-elected in 2021 and again in 2024 for a term through 2028. As Vice-President, she also chairs the ICF’s Diversity and Inclusion Commission and leads its Sustainable Development Programme, actively championing gender equality, inclusion, and environmental responsibility across global paddle sports. Cecilia is also the first Vice-President of ACODEPA and Chair of the Equality Committee | |
Matthew Campelli (Moderator) | |
Strategist, communicator and content creator specialising in sustainability and sport. Touchline Earth Founder and Managing Director. | |
Stephanie Lebeau (Speaker) | |
Stephanie Lebeau is a strategic and operational leader with over 20 years of experience in sustainability. Her career reflects deep expertise in sustainability, with 15 years spent providing strategic direction for major organisations, including in the sports sector. |
Another paddle sport sustainability webinar is scheduled for 2026, stay tuned for further details.
Register for free by clicking: here
Register now to join the International Canoe Federation’s Sustainability Webinar Series and be part of the movement shaping a more sustainable future for paddle sport.
