Geoff delivered a session titled "Keeping Sport Playable: Climate Risk & Adaptation" alongside Matthew Campelli, Managing Director of Touchline Earth. The session also featured Jana Janotova, Senior Programme Coordinator, Sports for Nature at IUCN, bringing together expertise from across the sport, sustainability and environmental sectors.

The discussion focused on the increasing risks posed by extreme weather events, flooding, prolonged droughts and rising temperatures, and explored practical approaches to helping sports facilities become more resilient in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Drawing on the GMA's expertise across grassroots, community and elite sport, Geoff highlighted the essential role of grounds professionals in adapting facilities to climate pressures while maintaining safe, high-quality playing surfaces.

Commenting on the event, Geoff Webb CEO , Grounds Management Association  said: "Climate change is already affecting the spaces where people play sport, exercise and connect with their communities. Grounds staff are on the frontline of responding to these challenges, adapting maintenance practices and embracing innovation to keep facilities safe, sustainable and playable. Whether supporting local clubs, schools or elite sporting venues, grounds professionals are critical to ensuring sport can continue to thrive in a changing climate. Brussels Climate Week provided an important opportunity to share expertise, learn from colleagues across Europe and ensure the role of grounds management is recognised within wider climate discussions."

The session explored how sport can better anticipate and respond to climate risks while recognising the broader environmental benefits that well-managed green spaces can deliver, including improved biodiversity, water management and community wellbeing.

Participation in Brussels Climate Week reflects the GMA's ongoing commitment to supporting the grounds management profession in addressing climate-related challenges through education, advocacy and the promotion of best practice. The event also provided an opportunity to contribute to wider conversations around how sport and nature can work together to create more resilient environments and sustainable facilities.

As climate pressures continue to grow, the GMA remains committed to ensuring grounds professionals have the knowledge, skills and support needed to help create resilient sporting facilities, from grassroots pitches to elite venues, while helping to deliver greener, healthier communities.