Open this publication in new window or tab >>2024 (English)Conference paper, Poster (with or without abstract) (Refereed)
Abstract [en]
The concept of the Anthropocene highlights humanity'ssignificant influence on climates and ecosystems. If the Anthropocene signifies the decline of nature as weonce knew it, how might this transformation influencethe sporting activities that take place in naturalenvironments? This situation prompts a renegotiationnot only of the future of sport places but also of ourshared history and individuals’ feelings and identities associated with it. Ultimately, these changes influencesports culture and reshape our understanding of what sports mean to us.
Research shows that the conditions for sports have changed and will continue to be affected by climate change (Bernard et al., 2021). For example, winter sports, such as skiing, will be impacted by shorter and less intense winter seasons (Rice et al., 2022). In sport ecology research, there is a growing need for more in depthanalyses and new perspectives to create a better understanding of the connections between sport and the natural environment (McCullough, 2023). In this context, the study of sports places is particularly significant, not only to assess the direct effects of climate change on these areas, but also to explore the broader social and cultural implications.
The aim is to theoretically and empirically deepen the understanding of how the sense of belonging to outdoor places for sport intersects with the environmental and social changes associated with the Anthropocene.
The project is based on a critical realist case study design using historical documentation and three generation interviews. It focuses on three case sites—a ski resort, an equestrian facility, and an outdoor sports facility— that are historically significant to Swedish sports life and now undergoing transformation in the Anthropocene. The project is theoretically based on a sociological and cultural–geographical perspective on place and belonging.
Climate change affects not only nature but also the cultural practices related to sports, making the project particularly relevant for understanding how these changes manifest in people's everyday lives. Through an approach based on the relationship between the physical environment and people’s thoughts, desires and emotions, the project is expected to contribute to a new perspective on sports in the Anthropocene and provide knowledge on how the Anthropocene affects and changes people’s sense of belonging to outdoor places for sports.
Keywords
Place, climate change, sport ecology, sport, belonging
National Category
Health Sciences Sport and Fitness Sciences
Research subject
Sports Science
Identifiers
urn:nbn:se:kau:diva-102431 (URN)
Conference
SVEBI-conference, Karlstad, 27-28 November
2024-12-092024-12-092025-06-05Bibliographically approved