NEWS RELEASE (#2024-09)
Global Canal Rowing Action concludes in Baku,
strengthening collaboration with IDBF to fight Climate Change
Baku, Azerbaijan – The Global Canal Rowing Action (GCRA), initiated at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021, concluded its 2024 edition in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 17. This event, spanning 6 continents, 41 countries, and 199 cities with over 12,000 athletes, was recognized as a national-level event and a break day activity for COP29.
The collaboration between IDBF and GCRA began at COP28 in Dubai, where GCRA held strategic discussions with IDBF President Claudio Schermi. The partnership reached a new milestone at COP29 in Baku, with the IDBF actively participating in GCRA-hosted activities. Dragon boat demonstrations were featured alongside rowing and canoeing events, highlighting the role of water sports in promoting environmental sustainability and cultural exchange.
During COP29, GCRA and IDBF signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their joint commitment to collaborate on promoting environmental sustainability, cultural exchange, and the development of water sports through joint actions in dragon boating and Global Canal Rowing Initiatives.
L to R: Ken Lee – organizer and co-founder of GCRA and grab of international Dept Deep Dive; Azerbaijan Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov; Claudio Schermi IDBF President; Jean-Christophe Rolland World Rowing President; Wang Shi Founded of GCRA;
Vugar Ahmadov President Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation ; and Tim Feng, Chairman of Deep Dive.
Event Overview: The GCRA united three leading water sports figures – Jean-Christophe Rolland, President of World Rowing; Thomas Konietzko, President of the International Canoe Federation; and Claudio Schermi, President of the International Dragon Boat Federation – along with Wang Shi, Founder of GCRA, and Ken Lee, Organizer and Co-founder of GCRA. This gathering underscored the unity in the fight against climate change. The event featured a Sustainability Parade with 55 boats including 2 dragon boats, emphasizing commitment to water resource protection and the continuation of the “Zero Carbon, Clean Water” campaign initiated since COP26.
The event was attended by leaders of the World Rowing (WR), International Canoe Federation (ICF), International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), World Historic and Cultural Canal Cities Cooperation Organization (WCCO), Azerbaijan Youth and Sports Ministry, Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation, Officials from UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), and Wang Shi, Founder of GCRA and Honorary President of Asian Rowing Federation.
Participation and Highlights: A total of 105 rowers and paddlers, aged from 9 to 75, participated in the event, showcasing the inclusive nature of the GCRA. The event was a Climate Change Campaign Water sports activity and a cultural celebration, with traditional Azerbaijani music and dance performances, and local delicacies and tea, reflecting Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage.
Legacy and Future Plans: The GCRA aimed to raise awareness for climate change through water sports and encouraged ongoing environmental protection initiatives within communities. Azerbaijan has pledged to host annual water climate change campaign events, with plans to expand the initiative to include European countries surrounding Azerbaijan, in collaboration with the GCRA organizing committee.
IDBF President Claudio Schermi stressed at the forum at UNFCC at Biosphere III pavilion, emphasized the profound connection between dragon boating and sustainability, highlighting actions across three key dimensions: environmental, economic, and social. Dragon boating is not only a competition but a celebration of teamwork, tradition, and respect for nature, fostering inclusivity and resilience.
On the environmental front, Schermi spotlighted youth-led initiatives, such as reducing single-use waste through reusable solutions, eco-friendly event planning, and carbon neutrality efforts like tree-planting partnerships. Additionally, clubs are adopting sustainable practices such as waterway cleanups and “hot washing” boats to protect aquatic ecosystems.
In the economic dimension, Schermi praised recycling programs, where athletes trade old uniforms for discounts, reducing waste while supporting underprivileged athletes. Sustainable event models balance environmental responsibility with economic accessibility, ensuring participation without financial strain.
Finally, in the social dimension, Schermi highlighted dragon boating’s inclusivity, embracing cancer survivors and para-athletes through initiatives like the Breast Cancer Paddlers program. Smoke-free policies at events promote health, while dragon boating remains a symbol of cultural exchange, peace, and friendship.
Schermi called for a united effort to protect natural resources and foster a sustainable future, where dragon boating can thrive as a beacon of environmental and social responsibility.
The IDBF President extended heartfelt gratitude to Organizer Ken Lee for his outstanding dedication and reaffirmed the IDBF’s commitment to advancing the project at COP30, scheduled to take place in Brazil in 2025.
Global Impact and Actions: Organizer Ken Lee highlighted that “the GCRA has evolved from raising awareness to promoting actionable steps towards sustainability, such as using reusable water bottles, reducing waste, implementing recycling programs, and educating on the importance of water conservation and carbon reduction efforts.” “The event also emphasized the Global Movement, looking forward to COP30 in Belem, Brazil, where the Amazon and South American athletes are expected to join the fight for a cleaner future.”
“The 2024 Global Canal Rowing Action in Baku stands as a testament to the power of sports in uniting the world in the battle against climate change, leaving a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship and international cooperation.”
About the IDBF
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) is the global governing body for dragon boat racing. Founded in 1991, it oversees and promotes the sport of dragon boat paddling across the world. With a mission to foster unity, friendship, and fair competition, the IDBF organises multiple international world championships, sets rules and standards for dragon boat racing and equipment, and has a membership base of over 80 national federations.