KINGSTOWN (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) – In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, climate change is a real issue. Floods and strong winds have caused significant damage to homes, schools, and recreational areas. However, amidst these challenges, a new project on the basketball court is bringing hope to local communities.
Between November 2025 and January 2026, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball Federation, with support from the FIBA Foundation, launched an initiative called Climate Hoops. This program transformed basketball courts in Park Hill and Georgetown into places for both play and learning about the environment.
The initiative kicked off with community meetings led by Dr. Andrew Simmons, an environmental scientist. He shared practical tips on how to lessen the effects of climate change. Community members took these ideas to heart, engaging in clean-up activities and learning about the importance of taking care of their surroundings.
Throughout the project, local basketball players and coaches mentored participants, teaching them skills and promoting teamwork. This connection between sports and community helped highlight that protecting the environment and enjoying basketball can go hand in hand. Climate Hoops became a vibrant space where different generations came together to share knowledge.
Over 250 individuals took part directly, including primary and secondary school students, as well as parents involved in farming. An additional 100 community members observed, asked questions, and learned alongside them.
The project sparked intergenerational learning, connecting youths, parents, and community leaders through basketball while encouraging a shared responsibility for the environment. Participants left with a greater understanding of climate change, increased enthusiasm for basketball, and a desire to take action.
Climate Hoops effectively raised awareness in ways that traditional methods might not. The support from the FIBA Foundation was crucial, providing financial resources and basketballs, which helped ensure quality training and refreshments for the participants.
This initiative showcases how sports can be more than just games; they can drive meaningful change. When basketball mixes with environmental awareness, communities not only gain skills and knowledge but also a renewed sense of hope.
Recent Trends in Climate Awareness and Sports
In the larger context, projects like Climate Hoops resonate with a growing trend where sports organizations are taking on social issues. A recent survey found that nearly 70% of sports fans believe that athletes should promote environmental and social causes. This shift highlights how communities are embracing sports as a platform for positive impact.
In summary, Climate Hoops illustrates that when sports ignite discussions on climate action, real change can happen. The FIBA Foundation continues to promote similar initiatives worldwide, believing in the power of basketball to empower and educate youth.
For more information on their initiatives, visit the FIBA Foundation.
