For Nelson and his students, this achievement is more than a certificate, it is a way of living the judo values beyond the dojo walls. “We feel committed to being active now that we have the IJF Kiai certificate,” he said. “It’s a responsibility we take seriously and it inspires us to continue improving.”
The Green Dojo programme, initiated by the International Judo Federation, encourages clubs worldwide to reduce their environmental impact and to take tangible action for the planet, from energy efficiency to waste reduction. For Paul Nelson, getting involved was a natural extension of judo’s philosophy. “Stopping the impact of carbon pollution and the loss of biodiversity needs everyone to do something different,” he explained. “It’s about showing support for leaders and communities who are making tough decisions for the future. Every action counts.”
For Nelson, sustainability and judo share a common mindset: discipline, respect and collective effort. “It’s the global issue affecting everyone’s way of life. We can’t ignore it, we have to be part of the change.”
A Lesson Beyond the Tatami
At Brisbane Judo Club, being a Green Dojo is as much about education as it is about action. The club’s philosophy teaches students that environmental awareness is a form of jita kyoei, mutual prosperity. “It tells the judoka their actions matter and they are active participants in their community,” Nelson explained. The younger members are especially receptive. “They see the immediate action, saving water or electricity, avoiding plastic waste, and they understand that what they do today shapes the world they’ll live in tomorrow.”
This daily mindfulness reinforces one of judo’s deepest lessons, that of personal responsibility. “It’s about being a contributing member of society. Clubs that take part in this process show they care, not just about winning medals but about the bigger picture.”
Practical Steps Toward Change
Brisbane Judo Club’s environmental approach is grounded in simple, consistent habits that make a real difference. “We avoid or reduce the use of plastic, compost kitchen waste, monitor water and electricity use, and optimise car and plane travel." These measures are part of a growing movement within the judo community. Around the world, dojos are integrating sustainable practices: recycling tatami covers, switching to renewable energy, using eco-friendly cleaning products and raising awareness among members.
Nelson also highlighted the economic benefits: “There is an increasing financial advantage in wasting less and reducing energy consumption. Sustainability is not only the right thing to do, it’s also intelligent.”
Nelson and his club have encountered scepticism along the way. “Some are doubtful, especially those without much appreciation of science or the natural environment,” he admitted. “But most agree that something needs to be done and that starting in any small way is good.” His message to other judo clubs is simple but powerful: start somewhere! “It’s about being part of your community. Even small changes like recycling, reducing travel or saving water, can inspire others and create momentum. The Green Dojo label is a recognition of that effort.”
Living Judo Values for the Planet
The Green Dojo initiative is built on the same principles that guide judo itself: respect, courage, sincerity and self-control. By embracing these values in an environmental context, dojos like Brisbane show how judo can contribute to a better world. For Paul Nelson, this is the essence of the project. “Judo teaches balance with ourselves, with others and now with nature. If every dojo does its part, we can create real change. The tatami is just the beginning.”
Brisbane Judo Club’s journey illustrates how sport can be a force for good, how a community united by respect and discipline can take meaningful action for the environment. As the world faces unprecedented ecological challenges, these steps remind us that every movement, every throw, every choice can carry purpose. By earning the IJF Green Dojo Kiai Certificate, Brisbane Judo Club joins a growing global network of dojos, from Korea to Belgium, from Tournai to Anyang, all committed to protecting the planet, one tatami at a time. In Brisbane, the message is clear: when judo meets environmental awareness, the power of action multiplies, because true strength lies not only in the throws we master but in the world we choose to build together.
More about the Green Dojo initiative