Sport and Sustainability in Türkiye: Exploring Sustainability Efforts Through Sport and Leisure Services

Abstract

As the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals approaches, there is growing focus on the feasibility of achieving these goals and the potential role of sport in supporting their attainment. This challenge is particularly acute in mega-cities, where high population density, socio-economic inequalities, and complex institutional environments complicate efforts to promote sustainable sport and social development. This chapter examines sustainability initiatives in Istanbul, one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, with a specific focus on the institutional practices of a leading municipal sport organisation responsible for sport provision in the city. Drawing on document analysis, the chapter demonstrates that the organisation has positioned itself as a comparatively strong actor in sustainability accountability, particularly in relation to ecological, health-related, and selected social objectives. At the same time, the analysis reveals an imbalance between environmental sustainability measures and more limited approaches to social sustainability. It concludes that addressing the interconnected sustainability challenges facing urban sport systems requires stronger intra- and inter-organisational collaboration, as well as more systematic engagement with key stakeholders, to ensure that sustainability efforts extend beyond sport and contribute to broader urban development goals. © 2027 selection and editorial matter, Brendon Knott and Cem Tinaz; individual chapters, the contributors. All rights are reserved.