WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY 2024 | INSIGHT

NBC: Sport coverage and protecting the environment

3rd May 2024

In a special Insight for World Press Freedom Day, this year marking “Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis”, the Head of Sport at NBC, Sackie Shikufa, shares how the public broadcaster’s sports department is confronting the environmental crisis. 

By Sackie Shikufa, Head of Sport, NBC News

For World Press Freedom Day, we’re happy to share some insights into how the NBC Sport Department is tackling environmental protection within the sporting landscape. Here are some of our plans.

Focus on Environmental Impact:

The NBC Sport Department is committed to raising awareness about the environmental impact of sport. We’ve assigned Janeth Gaoses to spearhead investigations and report on this topic. Ms Gaoses has highlighted the significant waste generation at sporting events, particularly plastic and beverage containers. Her work sheds light on resourceful women who collect these recyclables for income, despite the meagre compensation offered by recycling companies. This story emphasizes the environmental and social aspects of waste management. The issue of waste at stadiums was brought to light during the President Hage Geingob’s Cup match between African Stars and Eeshoke Chula Chula in Windhoek last year. This game generated a record number of beer cans.

Travel Carbon Footprint

Namibia’s vast distances pose a unique challenge for sport teams traveling to league games. We recognize the carbon footprint generated by this travel, and Ms Gaoses is currently investigating potential solutions. Her interviews with environmentalists, sport administrators, and players aim to not only find solutions but also bring attention to this often-ignored issue.

The NBC Sports Department is committed to using its platform to promote environmental awareness within the sporting community. By investigating the environmental impact of sport and highlighting potential solutions, we hope to inspire positive change.

Water Usage and Sustainable Practices

Water scarcity is a major concern in Namibia. Ms Gaoses is exploring water usage practices by sport facilities throughout the country. We’re particularly interested in how effectively golf courses, football fields, and cricket pitches adhere to water-saving initiatives like using semi-purified recycled water. The story will highlight existing challenges and potential solutions for sustainable water management.

Habitat Disruption and Infrastructure Upgrades

Namibia’s current situation of hosting international football matches in South Africa due to stadium upgrades raises questions about the environmental impact of these renovations. Ms Gaoses will be investigating whether the Sport Ministry or administrators have implemented any conservation efforts to mitigate potential damage to local ecosystems.

Sustainability Efforts and Community Engagement

In addition to investigating challenges, we’re also looking for positive solutions. We’ll explore any eco-friendly practices currently being implemented by sport clubs, administrators, or event organizers. This might include the use of solar power for stadiums, energy-efficient lighting, or sustainable catering options.

Athlete Activists and Educational Programs

The NBC Sport Department believes that athletes have a powerful platform to advocate for environmental protection. Ms Gaoses is actively searching for Namibian athlete activists who can share their motivations and initiatives. In cases where there are currently no such athletes, our stories can serve as a call to action, encouraging athletes to step forward and become environmental advocates.

Conclusion

The NBC Sports Department is committed to using its platform to promote environmental awareness within the sporting community. By investigating the environmental impact of sport and highlighting potential solutions, we hope to inspire positive change. We’re proud to contribute to a “Press for the Planet” on World Press Freedom Day.