The Sports ETA
Sustainability Program
What is it?
Together, Sports ETA and Rico Solutions will provide Sports ETA members a number of educational offerings to address and implement transformative sustainability opportunities. This initiative launched at Sports ETA’s 2024 4S Summit hosted in Chattanooga, Tennessee and will continue throughout 2025. Richmond Region Tourism will also partner as the sponsor of the educational courses focused on sustainability strategies that will be available through the Sports Tourism Learning Institute.
View press release.
Who is Rico Solutions?
Rico Solutions is more than an event production and consulting company—they are a mission-driven partner committed to advancing sustainability in sports and events. Born from a passion for sports and the outdoors, their journey began as a grassroots effort to protect the planet and has grown into a movement that creates meaningful impact.
From local communities to corporate partners, they work to generate positive outcomes for the environment, small businesses, and regional economies. Led by their founder and CEO, Rico Tesio, who also serves as Board Chair of the Council for Responsible Sport, they bring unmatched expertise in sustainability frameworks that empower events to earn recognition and certification for their efforts.
Their team blends decades of event management expertise with a sustainability focus, aligning every project with the Triple Bottom Line.
What Rico Does: Championing Sustainability in Sports
At Rico Solutions, they believe in the power of sports to inspire action and lead change. In this partnership, they'll equip Sports ETA sports commissions, visitors bureaus, and event producers with the knowledge and strategies to integrate sustainability into every stage of their operations.
Why Sustainability in Sports Matters
Sports organizations and events have the unique ability to reach diverse audiences and rally local communities. By adopting sustainable practices, they reduce their environmental footprint while driving economic growth, enhancing community engagement, and advancing social responsibility. Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a competitive advantage for organizations seeking to lead by example.
How Rico Works: Tailored Sustainability Solutions
Rico Solutions delivers comprehensive support to help your organization achieve measurable sustainability goals. Their approach focuses on:
- Education and Training: Empowering organizations and stakeholders with the tools and knowledge needed to implement effective sustainability practices.
- Sustainability Planning: Defining actionable goals and strategies tailored to your unique challenges and opportunities.
- Programming and Initiatives: Creating initiatives that address environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic impact.
- Event Execution: Ensuring sustainability is a priority during live events through resource management, waste diversion, and stakeholder engagement.
- Reporting and Certification: Tracking progress, ensuring transparency, and pursuing certifications that celebrate your commitment to sustainability excellence.
Where can I find more information?
- Sports ETA and Rico Solutions social media and online at www.ricosolutions.com
- Rico and his team will be leading education breakout sessions at upcoming Sports ETA events on sustainability for sports events & tourism professionals and rights holders:
- 2024 4S Summit in Chattanooga, TN
- 2025 Sports ETA Symposium in Tulsa, OK
- Sports ETA and Rico Solutions are teaming up to write two Sports ETA White Papers on Sustainability. These white papers will be available to Sports ETA members (for free) and will illustrate essential data and content on the state of sustainability in Sports and Events Tourism.
- Online through the Sports ETA's STLI - Sustainability courses starting in Q4 of 2024 and throughout 2025 - five courses in total.
Questions? Contact Sports ETA Member Services at info@sportseta.org.