Article

Abstract

The ongoing destruction of the environment requires sustainable action, especially in the context of mega sport events like the Olympic Games. Therefore, it is essential to not only focus on economic and social benefits but also on reducing ecological impact and promoting sustainable development of the host city’s ecology. This article proposes a conceptual framework for measuring the environmental footprint of sporting events through an Environmental Cost-Benefit Analysis (ECBA). A novel methodological approach is proposed that integrates ecological accounting principles with event management practices, allowing the quantification and comparison of environmental costs and benefits. This facilitates in-formed decision-making for more sustainable event planning and execution. The research is expected to make a significant contribution to closing the research gap on cost-benefit management and environmental sustainability of sporting events. It promotes a shift towards environmentally conscious event management and underscores the urgent need to incorporate environmental considerations into sport event planning.