Sports and Climate: A $2. 3 Trillion Risk

The world’s sports industry, worth about $2. 3 trillion this year, is growing fast thanks to events that bring tourists and huge TV audiences. A new study says this growth could be cut sharply by climate change, which also hurts the planet more when sports events burn fuel and waste resources. The report shows that the biggest parts of the industry are not just professional games. Sports tourism earns $672 billion, and sporting goods bring in $612 billion each year. These areas grow faster than elite competitions, which only account for about $140 billion. If extreme heat, floods or lack of snow keep games from happening, the industry could lose over $500 billion by 2030. The study points out that fewer young men play football on weekends, while more women and children join organised sports. This shift could shrink the core fan base that keeps big events profitable.The cost of cancelling outdoor competitions is high. In the UK alone, bad weather can cost clubs and local leagues about £320 million each year in lost revenue and extra maintenance. Broadcasters are now adding clauses that protect them from paying for shows that never happen because of weather. On the bright side, sponsors are learning to use their money for social good. They want to see real outcomes, like community programs for women or recycling projects, instead of just logos on jerseys. Companies that invest this way can help keep sports growing while also improving society. The study spent more than 5, 000 hours collecting data from leagues, sponsors and industry groups. It warns that without smarter choices, the sports economy could reach $3. 7 trillion by 2030 and even $8. 8 trillion by 2050, but only if it stops worsening climate damage.