To decrease our carbon footprint on the Earth, sustainable initiatives have been implemented in various sectors of society. One of the most recent incorporations is in soccer by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).
The UEFA recently demonstrated a comprehensive, data-driven approach to integrating sustainability into European football (aka ‘soccer’ in the United States). The UEFA Respect Report provides a detailed analysis of the sustainability measures implemented during UEFA EURO 2024 in Germany, with a focus on measurable outcomes. UEFA’s €29.6 million investment in sustainability initiatives yielded a 21% reduction in carbon emissions compared to initial forecasts, providing a tangible example of how large-scale sporting events can mitigate environmental impact.
A key strategy in this effort was the strategies in transportation for tournaments—such as clustering group-stage matches into regional hubs—which resulted in a 75% reduction in air travel, significantly lowering the event’s carbon footprint. Additionally, over 81% of ticket holders used free local public transport, further reducing reliance on personal vehicles and contributing towards a sustainable transportation model. Waste reduction was another key success, with UEFA achieving a 36% decrease in waste production compared to UEFA EURO 2016, all while adhering to a zero-waste-to-landfill policy.
Moving beyond conventional carbon offset projects, UEFA has implemented climate resilience initiatives aimed at fostering long-term sustainability in hosting national associations. These projects—focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and waste management—are directly tied to the emissions generated by each event.
Additionally, beyond tournaments, the organization’s headquarters in Switzerland serves as a case study in energy efficiency, with 98% of its campus powered by renewable energy sources. These sources include solar panels and electric vehicle charging infrastructure to help reduce the impact of emissions. To reduce our global carbon footprint, we must embrace scientific approaches to sustainability. We must act on these initiatives, like the UEFA did, to reduce our carbon footprint in promotion for a healthier environment.
Sources
https://sustainabilitymag.com/articles/how-is-uefa-making-european-football-sustainable
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