SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

In collaboration with the Portuguese Swimming Federation, European Aquatics is delighted to be rolling out an extensive Sustainability and Legacy Program for this summer’s U18 Men’s Division I European Water Polo Championships in Rio Maior, which will take place from 18 August – 24 August 2025.

The program seeks to build on recent achievements and is designed to reduce the event’s ecological footprint while generating lasting social and economic value for the local community, and this initiative is a key element of the broader Aquatics Social Responsibility (ASR) Strategy.

‘At the recent European Aquatics Artistic Swimming Championships, Funchal 2025, the Portuguese Swimming Federation demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and our remarkable efforts earned us the right to display the Blue Flag – European Aquatics’ seal of approval for sustainability excellence,’ said the President of the Portuguese Swimming Federation, Miguel Arrobas.

‘We remain fully committed to putting sustainability at the heart of all our organisational measures, bringing best practices to all events, all locations and all competitions.’

The program is structured around five core priority areas, each carefully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

A dedicated Green Task Force – comprising local volunteers – will be active throughout the Championships to interact with attendees, raise awareness of environmental concerns, and promote sustainable behaviours.

Another notable initiative, ‘Eliminate Plastic’, represents a meaningful step toward minimising single-use plastic waste by having easily-accessible water fountains located across the tournament venue.

Furthermore, admission to the U18 Men’s Division I European Water Polo Championships will be entirely free of charge, thereby enhancing accessibility for the local community, creating stronger social cohesion, and stimulating greater public interest in the sport of water polo.

‘I am very satisfied with the importance being given by European Aquatics to Social Responsibility and Sustainability in the organisation of its events,’ added Mr Arrobas.

‘It is very important for us to implement measures that show our concern regarding the protection and preservation of water quality, as it is our natural habitat. We will also be maximising energy efficiency, recycling and reducing waste, as these are important sustainability aspects during these major events.

‘We still have a long way to go, but we believe that these small steps will take us in the direction to make our planet healthier and safer.’

Additional sustainability measures planned for Rio Maior include a ‘Sustainable Fun Zone’, which will showcase the full range of initiatives being implemented while promoting environmentally responsible behaviours through engaging, educational and entertaining activities.

These efforts highlight the shared commitment of European Aquatics and the Portuguese Swimming Federation to hosting aquatic events that generate positive impacts for both the sport and the environment.

The President’s official statement (above) reinforces the vital importance of environmental stewardship and water conservation as foundational principles for ensuring a sustainable and thriving future for sport and broader society.

Collectively, these measures are intended to leave a lasting impact on the local community and event participants, creating a meaningful and enduring legacy.

For more information about European Aquatics’ social responsibility initiatives, click here.