Making waves for a greener future: European Aquatics and Romanian Water Polo Federation announce sustainable initiatives for Men’s U18 European Water Polo Championships

In collaboration with the Romanian Water Polo Federation, European Aquatics is delighted to announce a comprehensive Sustainability and Legacy Programme for the upcoming U18 Men’s Elite European Water Polo Championships in Oradea.

The prestigious age-group event will take place from 18 to 24 August 2025, and the initiatives aim to ensure a lasting positive impact on both the local community and the broader aquatic sports landscape.

Building on recent achievements, the programme is designed to significantly reduce the tournament’s environmental impact while delivering lasting social and economic benefits to the region.

As a key aspect of the wider Aquatics Social Responsibility (ASR) Strategy, it highlights European Aquatics’ and the Romanian Water Polo Federation’s commitment to sustainability, legacy, and successful community engagement.

‘Our organisation acknowledges that maintaining a clean environment and conserving water are crucial for ensuring a healthy and sustainable world,’ stated the Romanian Water Polo Federation General Secretary, Florin Ardelean.

‘We understand these measures are essential for the well-being of all athletes and society.’

The Sustainability and Legacy Programme for Oradea is built around five core priority areas, each thoughtfully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to ensure maximum impact.

A dedicated Green Task Force comprising of local volunteers will be put into action around the venue to plant trees in the park located in front of the competition pool, contributing to the expansion of green areas and environment enhancement.

Another notable initiative, ‘Eliminate Plastic’, will see close monitoring of the amount of plastic water bottles collected for recycling during the tournament.

Admission to the U18 Men’s Elite European Water Polo Championships will also be through fully digital tickets to avoid paper waste and streamline the entry process.

Furthermore, as part of the event’s energy-saving measures, the scheduling of games and all related activities has carefully been planned to maximise the use of natural daylight, thereby minimising the need for artificial lighting.

To avoid food waste during the competition and support the surrounding neighbourhood, all remaining food will be donated to an association in Oradea that helps people in need.

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

‘In alignment with the European Aquatics strategy, the European Aquatics Social Responsibility principles, and the recommendations outlined in the European Aquatics Sustainable Chart, we commit to implementing ambitious and measurable actions in all our activities and events.’

Additional sustainability initiatives planned for Oradea include a ‘Sustainable Fun Zone,’ which will highlight all the measures being implemented and encourage environmentally responsible behaviours through interactive, educational and entertaining activities.

This detailed programme demonstrates the shared dedication of European Aquatics and the Romanian Water Polo Federation to delivering successful aquatic events that produce positive outcomes for both the sport and the environment.

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

The post Making waves for a greener future: European Aquatics and Romanian Water Polo Federation announce sustainable initiatives for Men’s U18 European Water Polo Championships first appeared on European Aquatics®.