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WFSGI UNVEILS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY POLICY PAPER WITH BUSINESS AT OECD

Writer's picture: World Federation of the Sporting Goods IndustryWorld Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry

Learn why physical activity is a low-cost high-return investment for multiple sectors worldwide.


World Federation of the Sports Goods Industry and Business at OECD have co-produced a new Policy Paper presented at the OECD Health Forum in Paris by our Head of Physical Activity, Caroline Brooks.

"The physical activity and sports sector is dependent on nature for the provision of outdoor recreation spaces, pitches and trails, and therefore must ensure it plays its part in protecting the planet from further impacts of climate change."

 The new policy paper entitled “Physical Activity: The transversal benefits for our people, our planet, our economy and more prosperous societies,” highlights physical activity as a low-cost, high-return investment, benefiting the environment, fostering a healthier workforce, and supports the development of young people.


The paper calls for physical activity to be prioritised and cross-sector collaborations formed to address the intersection of health, economic productivity and sustainability. This multi-sectoral approach, where the private sector can play a more prominent role, positions the sporting goods industry as a key player in shaping innovative and impactful solutions to global challenges.

 

Featuring examples from WFSGI members Nike, Adidas, Speedo and ASICS, the paper looks at how the sporting goods sector is contributing to fostering active lifestyles through inclusive products, sustainable practices, and global outreach.

 "Reducing transport demand while promoting low-carbon options can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and air pollution while improving citizens’ physical health. All these have significant economic benefits."



Why is this important?

Recent figures from the World Health Organisation reveal that 31% of adults do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity to maintain good health. That number rises to a huge 81% of 12-17-year-olds not doing enough physical activity to stay healthy.

 

The WHO has calculated the economic cost of treating health conditions that can be prevented through engaging in a healthier lifestyle with more physical activity will reach at least US$ 300 billion by 2030, around US$ 27 billion annually.

WHO, 2022, Global Status Report on Physical Activity

In June 2024, the WFSGI released a historic joint statement on behalf of the industry calling for urgent and coordinated action to address the growing physical inactivity crisis. You can read more about it here.



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