European Aquatics and Türkiye Water Polo Federation announce sustainable initiatives for U16 European Water Polo Championships

In close partnership with the Türkiye Water Polo Federation, European Aquatics is delighted to announce a comprehensive Sustainability and Legacy Program that is being put in place for the upcoming U16 Women’s European Water Polo Championships and U16 Men’s European Water Polo Championships.

The two events will be held in the vibrant and picturesque city of Istanbul, with the women’s competition running from 27 June to 3 July, followed by the men’s event from 7 to 13 July.

Building on recent successes, the program aims to minimise the carbon footprint of the events, while creating lasting social and economic benefits for the local and wider community.

These initiatives – which include presenting all the winners with medals made from fully recyclable raw materials – represent a key principle of the broader Aquatics Social Responsibility (ASR) Strategy, which is part of a long-term commitment to sustainability and community legacy.

‘In alignment with the European Aquatics strategy, the European Aquatics Social Responsibility principles, and the recommendations outlined in the European Aquatics Sustainable Chart, we are committed to implementing ambitious and measurable actions in all our activities and events.’ stated Adem Varlik, the General Secretary of the Türkiye Water Polo Federation.

The program for this summer’s events 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 from the University of Ankara, will be present throughout the Championships – interacting with attendees, raising awareness of key environmental issues and encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices.

Representatives from Badem Pinari will also be on site promoting the company’s lightest plastic water bottle, which is described as ‘nature friendly’ and designed specifically to ease the recycling process.

Fun Badem-branded recycling points will be placed around the venues as well to promote recycling, with all collected plastics being sent directly for processing.

In addition, admission to both European Championships will be offered entirely free of charge. This measure is intended to promote inclusivity, strengthen community ties, and inspire broader public engagement with the sport of water polo.

‘We are aware that achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals requires significant and transformative actions to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030,’ added Mr Varlik.

‘Our organisation also acknowledges that maintaining a clean environment and conserving water are crucial for ensuring a healthy and sustainable world, which is essential for the well-being of athletes and society.’

Additional initiatives planned for Istanbul include the creation of a ‘Sustainable Fun Zone’ – a dynamic space designed to showcase the various measures being implemented, while helping to establish environmentally responsible behaviours through interactive, educational and engaging activities.

Here, visitors can learn from pioneering companies that are producing plastic from items such as bread waste and also coffee waste, as well as sample environmentally-friendly vegan cosmetics.

An interactive photo-zone will also be in operation, offering a stunning back-drop of the event and allowing guests to have their picture taken alongside fun sustainability slogans.

These plans reflect the shared commitment of European Aquatics and the Türkiye Water Polo Federation to organising aquatic events that deliver positive outcomes for the sport, wider society and the environment.

Together, these measures aim to leave a lasting impression on the local community and all the participants at each event, establishing a meaningful and enduring legacy well beyond the conclusion of both Championships.

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

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