Impact of logistics on sustainability in Mega-Events (Sport Events) in Developing Countries

الملخص

Logistics has long been an essential part of industrial and economic activity; however, it has only recently been acknowledged as an independent and strategic function. This delayed recognition is largely due to the complex nature of logistics, as it consists of multiple interrelated sub-functions and subsystems that have traditionally been managed as separate operational activities. In recent years, both scholars and practitioners have emphasized the importance of adopting a holistic perspective that considers the interconnections and interactions among these various components (Baker & et al., 2010, p 3).

Sustainable development has emerged as a key approach to addressing the environmental damage caused by excessive resource exploitation, environmental degradation, climate change, and rapid population growth. Global population is expected to increase significantly by 2050, placing additional pressure on resources and affecting the quality of life of future generations, This situation highlights the importance of development that satisfies present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, a concept that can be applied across various disciplines (Damico & et al., 2022, p 1).

In recent years, sports mega-events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games have increasingly been viewed as opportunities capable of generating substantial economic, social, and cultural benefits for host countries. Due to their large scale, these events reflect the globalization of the sports economy and the growing international commercialization of sport. Mega-events are distinguished by their global reach, high levels of public interest, significant financial investments, extensive media coverage, and strong ability to attract tourism. Beyond their sporting dimension, such events are widely considered powerful drivers of territorial, urban, economic, and symbolic development, which has led to growing academic interest in examining their diverse impacts (SLIMANE & ROQUIA, 2025, p 1248).

In this context, developing countries have increasingly sought to host mega sporting events to capitalize on their potential economic and developmental advantages. Nonetheless, the substantial costs associated with building specialized infrastructure and managing operational requirements can be exceptionally high, casting doubt on whether the short- and long-term benefits of these events adequately outweigh the financial investments required (Matheson & Baade, 2004, p 2).

One of the primary objectives of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar was to deliver a fully sustainable tournament and achieve the status of the first carbon-neutral World Cup. A central aspect of this sustainability strategy focused on minimizing waste and promoting recycling. To this end, the organizing authorities implemented a comprehensive program aimed at reducing waste generation and enhancing the efficiency of waste segregation and recycling processes. Measures included replacing single-use plastics with compostable alternatives and installing sorting facilities at all venues to facilitate proper waste management. Additionally, sustainability volunteers actively engaged with spectators through awareness campaigns to educate them on responsible waste disposal. By the conclusion of the event, approximately 80% of the waste produced had been successfully recycled, totalling around 2,000 tons (Elbanna & et al., 2025, p 304).

Given the rising participation of developing countries in hosting mega-events, understanding how logistics can enhance sustainability is crucial for minimizing environmental impact while maximizing socio-economic benefits.