The paper establishes a new benchmark for the FISU World University Games, which take place from 16-27 July 2025, presenting an unprecedentedly detailed concept that will set new standards for international university sports. Titled "Zoom-in and Zoom-out: The Sustainability and Legacy Approach," the pre-Games paper details the current status of the Organising Committee's sustainability management efforts.

It addresses complex issues, detailing the measures being implemented at the World University Games to maximise sustainability. It explains how these measures will contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and outlines strategies for creating a positive social impact. The document also emphasises how the values of sport, such as respect, fair play, cohesion, and commitment, will be conveyed and reinforced.

Professor Dr Holger Preuss, the Games supervisor for Legacy and Sustainability, says that concerns regarding environmental and social sustainability are increasingly significant, complementing the traditional focus on economic objectives. "The focus of our strategy for the FISU Games is on reducing environmental impact, strengthening the regional economy, and maximising social projects," he said.

The paper employs two perspectives, methodically applied to analyse the respective areas of focus and impact. The "zoom-in" perspective examines the sustainability strategy, while the "zoom-out" perspective, explained by futurologist and trend researcher Anja Kirig, outlines the legacy plan. 

Additionally, the interactions between these perspectives are considered, highlighting the interplay between the fundamental aspects of "sustainability strategy" and "areas of impact along the megatrends."

Such article was developed on the basis of a participatory process and in close cooperation with the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community, the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, the German University Sports Federation (adh) and the International University Sports Federation (FISU). 

"This pre-Games paper on Sustainability & Legacy is a milestone in our commitment and ambition to leave a positive impact on our environment and society through the Games‘, said Niklas Borger, CEO of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games gGmbH.

His statement was echoed by FISU President Leonz Eder. "It has been evident that the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 Organising Committee has put a major focus on sustainability and legacy since the conceptualisation of the FISU Games," he said.

"It is great to see this now come to life in this comprehensive pre-Games paper, covering so many aspects of sustainability and legacy. We are seeing more of our event hosts integrate these important concepts into the FISU Games. We are confident that Rhine-Ruhr will host an exceptional event in 2025 leaving lasting positive impacts for generations to come."