IOC receives top environmental award

The organisation was named a Champion of the Earth 2007 by the United Nations Environment Programme.

The award recognises prominent and inspirational environmental leaders from each region of the world. Other winners of this year's award include Al Gore.

The IOC was honoured for its work in encouraging Games host cities to consider the long-term impact of Games, environmental protection and sustainability issues.

Alongside sport and culture, the IOC considers the environment as the third dimension of Olympism.

Chairman of the IOC Sport and Environment Commission Pál Schmitt and IOC member Ser Miang Ng collected the award at an official ceremony today in Singapore.

IOC President Jacques Rogges said in a video message: "I am very proud to receive this award, which is a great recognition of the IOC’s responsibility towards and commitment to the importance of sustainable development in sport."

Read more on the IOC website

Read Jacques Rogge's blog

19 April 2007