Australian race walker Rhydian Cowley has been thrust into the global spotlight, not only for his athletic achievements but also for his passionate advocacy for environmental sustainability. Recently named the Green ‘World Athlete of the Year,’ Cowley’s recognition reflects his ongoing commitment to fighting climate change and promoting eco-friendly practices within the sports community and beyond.
A bronze medallist in the marathon race walk mixed relay at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Cowley has consistently been a strong voice in the climate action movement. His involvement in various initiatives and programs focused on environmental sustainability has made him a key figure in the intersection of sports and climate activism. Through his participation in platforms like the World Athletics Champions for a Better World programme, Cowley has been able to leverage his athletic success to shine a light on the urgent need for action on climate change.
In his own words, Cowley expressed a deep personal connection to the cause, explaining how climate change has already begun to affect not only daily life but also his professional career as an athlete. “Taking action on climate change is the best way to respond to its impacts,” he said, noting that he has experienced these changes firsthand during competition and training. His words underscore the reality that athletes, particularly those who compete in outdoor sports, are increasingly feeling the effects of shifting environmental conditions, from extreme weather to altered competition schedules.
Cowley’s recognition with the Green ‘World Athlete of the Year’ award is a testament to the value of his contributions, not just in terms of athletic performance but also in his role as an environmental advocate. The award serves as a validation of his efforts to combine sports with sustainability, a journey that he says has been both rewarding and essential in helping him continue his advocacy work. “Winning this award helps me to feel like the route I’ve taken is making a valuable contribution,” Cowley stated, adding that it has encouraged him to remain steadfast in his climate action journey.
At 33, Cowley’s career as a race walker has seen its fair share of accomplishments, from his eighth-place finish in the men’s 50km walk at the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games to his bronze medal in Paris. However, it is his work off the track that is increasingly defining him. His leadership within World Athletics’ Champions for a Better World programme has allowed him to become a significant voice within the sport, advocating for greater environmental consciousness and action. This program is part of the broader Athletics for a Better World platform, which aims to empower athletes and leverage their influence to promote sustainable practices globally.
Cowley has been vocal in his praise for World Athletics, particularly regarding its role in fostering a platform for athletes to speak out on environmental issues. He emphasized the importance of initiatives like the Champions for a Better World programme, which he believes has empowered athletes like himself to take meaningful action. The creation of these platforms, according to Cowley, has not only amplified the voices of athletes but has also contributed to the broader recognition of World Athletics as a leader in the realm of environmental sustainability.
This dedication to environmental advocacy has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, World Athletics was awarded the prestigious Elite Organisation Award for its efforts in promoting sustainability through the sport. Cowley acknowledged this achievement as an important step forward, noting that it reflects the hard work and commitment of both athletes and organizations in pushing for a more sustainable future. The recognition of World Athletics, he believes, is well-deserved and highlights the growing importance of environmental advocacy within the world of sports.
Beyond his work with World Athletics, Cowley is deeply involved with a number of other organizations that share his passion for environmental sustainability. He is an active member of EcoAthletics, a group dedicated to fostering environmental awareness among athletes. He also works with the Sports Environment Alliance, an organization that seeks to bring together athletes, sports organizations, and environmental experts to promote sustainable practices within the sports industry.
Another group that Cowley is actively involved in is Champions For Earth, an athlete-led organization focused on encouraging climate action and environmental responsibility. This group works to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on sports and inspire both athletes and fans to take steps toward sustainability. Through his involvement with Champions For Earth, Cowley has been able to use his platform as an elite athlete to inspire others to get involved in the fight against climate change.
Cowley is also part of High Impact Athletes, an organization that encourages athletes to use their influence to promote high-impact, effective charitable giving, with a particular focus on environmental causes. By aligning himself with groups that are making tangible differences in the fight against climate change, Cowley is not only raising awareness but also helping to drive real-world action.
Additionally, Cowley contributes to FrontRunners, another athlete-led initiative aimed at addressing environmental issues through the lens of sport. FrontRunners is known for its efforts to encourage athletes to lead by example when it comes to sustainability, both in their personal lives and in their professional careers. Cowley’s involvement in such initiatives highlights his belief in the power of athletes to effect change, both on and off the track.
What sets Cowley apart is his ability to balance his athletic career with his environmental advocacy. As a race walker, his dedication to his sport requires intense training, focus, and discipline. Yet, he has found a way to integrate his passion for sustainability into his athletic life, using his platform to educate others and encourage action. This dual commitment is something that Cowley views as essential, particularly in today’s world where the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident.
For Cowley, climate change is not just an abstract concept but a reality that is already shaping the future of sports. Extreme weather conditions, unpredictable competition schedules, and changing landscapes are all factors that athletes must contend with as the planet warms. By speaking out on these issues, Cowley hopes to inspire others to take action, whether they are fellow athletes, fans, or sports organizations.
His message is clear: athletes have a responsibility to use their platforms for good, and climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time. Through his work with various organizations and his role within World Athletics, Cowley is showing that sports can be a powerful vehicle for change, especially when it comes to environmental sustainability.
As he continues his athletic career, Cowley remains committed to using his voice to advocate for a greener future. Whether through his involvement in environmental initiatives or his work with fellow athletes, he is determined to make a lasting impact both on and off the track. His recognition as the Green ‘World Athlete of the Year’ is not just a reflection of his individual efforts but also a symbol of the growing movement within sports to address climate change head-on.
Looking forward, Cowley hopes to see even more athletes and sports organizations take up the mantle of environmental advocacy. He believes that by working together, the sports community can make a significant contribution to the global fight against climate change. As he continues his journey, both as an athlete and an advocate, Cowley’s message remains one of hope and determination: through collective action, a sustainable future is within reach.
