Governing sustainability in the future

Overview

Google, IBM & Meta Certificates — All 10,000+ Courses at 40% Off

One annual plan covers every course and certificate on Coursera. 40% off for a limited time.

This course explores how to govern and build sustainability strategies in sport in a rapidly changing global context. Through strategic perspectives and examples from the sports ecosystem, learners will analyze how social, technological, and climate changes are reshaping how sport is organized, consumed, and generates impact. From understanding emerging fan behaviors to assessing the role of innovation and data, the course connects future challenges with strategic decision making in sports organizations. Throughout the lessons, you will discover how to assess the sustainability context, define clear objectives, and select reliable indicators to measure progress. You will also learn how to integrate sustainability into governance structures, foster continuous improvement, and communicate responsibly and transparently. By the end of the course, you will understand how to develop robust sustainability strategies, build partnerships, and create new business models that allow sport to generate long term social, environmental, and economic value.

Syllabus

The future of sport: between disruption and adaptation

Explore the forces reshaping modern sport, from climate adaptation to technological transformation and evolving consumer behaviors. This module examines how sports organizations must adapt their social license to operate, navigate the double-edged impact of technology and AI, and respond to changing participation patterns and digital engagement preferences in an increasingly connected world.

Building a sustainability strategy in sport addressing current and emerging issues

Master the foundational elements of sustainability strategy development through systematic assessment and goal-setting processes. This module covers stakeholder consultation methodologies, impact assessment techniques, sustainability framework selection, and strategic objective definition to create robust, evidence-based approaches to organizational transformation.

Managing strategy for the long term

Develop skills for long-term sustainability management through effective governance, innovation, and communication strategies. This module addresses decision-making integration, role definition and accountability structures, continuous improvement methodologies, and transparent reporting practices that build trust while avoiding greenwashing and socialwashing pitfalls.

New partnerships and new business models

Examine innovative partnership models and business approaches that balance growth with sustainability imperatives. This module explores storytelling and athlete advocacy strategies, business and institutional partnership development, and addresses the fundamental tension between expansion models and sustainable practices in creating new event formats for the future of sport.