ABSTRACT

This chapter explains the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and how it is perceived in the realm of sport. It discusses the three components of CSR: economic, environmental, and social, and emphasizes the environmental component as it is an area that has recently received growing attention in the sport industry. In recent years, CSR has been viewed not only as a philanthropic engagement, but also as a strategic approach, where business decisions are made to achieve social and strategic distinction. CSR environmental focus in sport is driven by changing societal values and increased engagement with and expectations by a variety of stakeholders. To minimize the adverse effect their operations have on the natural environment, sport professionals at all levels turned their attention to environmental CSR initiatives. Although most environmental CSR activities in the sport industry are voluntarily driven, recent government regulations require that new facilities meet specific environmental standards, thus forcing sport organizations to carefully plan and comply.