Football is by far the most popular sport in the world with a fanbase of about half of the world’s population. As a result of so many teams, competitions, and supporters, football has a massive carbon footprint that has many negative impacts on our environment.
This article by Earth.org highlights how it is hard to calculate the specific emissions of each football club. Still, it does share some interesting facts about the emissions contributed by major international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup 2022 and the Men’s Euros 2024. In addition, this article by context.news also shares interesting facts about the carbon footprints of these major football tournaments.
From these two articles, there is a common concern about whether the football world and the organizations that host these tournaments are doing enough to combat their carbon footprint. The answers to these concerns are not well known yet, but fortunately, certain organisations are doing their best to bring awareness to these topics, such as Pledgeball.
I came across Pledgeball’s websites and I was impressed by their initiative to take action themselves and help these climate change issues. Before running across their website there were certain actions that I already did to help limit my carbon footprint, but after reading through some of their pledges I now know of other ways to help limit my carbon footprint even more.
Ways I Reduce My Carbon Footprint as a Footballer
My name is Daniel Pena, and I am the founder of The Art of Football, a public blog and private training program designed to help footballers improve their performance on and off the field with training and lifestyle tips and more.
One of the main ways I help players is by teaching them the importance of nature. I encourage my athletes to spend as much time outdoors, under the sun, and in the fresh air as possible instead of staying indoors all day, as well as highlight the importance of seeing the sunrise and sunset daily.
Working with nature is one of the easiest ways to improve energy levels, recovery, mood, and even alleviate stress which is why it is important to take care of the environment we live in, since it gives us so many positive benefits.
Here are some of the simplest ways that I reduce my carbon footprint whether I am going out to play or to coach:
● I use a reusable water bottle and limit spending money on individual water bottles: Unless I absolutely have to
● I buy local in-season food that has not been flown across the country: this also helps support local businesses and farmers
● I save my food leftovers for the next day or so: I also minimise food waste
● I always unplug all electronics around the house that are not being used: This includes turning off the Wi-fi at night
● I donate or recycle old clothes and training gear: Instead of throwing them away
● I buy solid hair care products: Shampoo bar instead of liquid gel shampoo
● I use energy-efficient light bulbs
● I recycle everything correctly
● I carpool with others whenever possible
● Occasionally, I will pick up trash from the street to help keep the streets clean
● I am mindful of the amount of water I use
● I am also mindful of the products I buy and shop for Eco-friendly products
New Pledges to Reduce My Carbon Footprint
After reading through the pledges at Pledgeball.com there are a couple of new ways I learned about that can help me reduce my carbon footprint even more. Some of these actions are things I may not be able to do at the moment but will keep in mind for the future.
Things I can do right now:
● Compost food waste
● Only buy appliances with a good energy efficiency rating
● Use eco-cup for hot drinks on the go
● Buy big packs of snacks or food (to limit wrapping materials/waste)
● Use eco-friendly napkins and recycle toilet paper
For the future:
● Plant my fruits and vegetables
● Plant a tree
● Drought-proof my home
● Get a home energy audit
● Use a programmable thermostat
● Install solar panels
● Ask for “green” measure when out on vacation
Why Reducing Your Carbon Footprint is Important?
Reducing your carbon footprint, whether you are a player, a coach, or a fan, is crucial not just for the environment but also for the well-being of communities worldwide. Climate change is largely driven by carbon emissions, which lead to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and loss of biodiversity.
These negative impacts can have severe consequences, especially for vulnerable populations and areas. As footballers and fans, we are part of a global community and by taking steps and leading by example to reduce our carbon footprints, we contribute to a healthier planet and a more sustainable future.
Read about Pledgeball’s Sustainable Travel Charter.
In addition, being mindful of our carbon footprint aligns with the values of teamwork, discipline, and respect, which are just as important to have on and off the football pitch. Just as we work together on the field, we can unite in our efforts to protect the planet.
In doing so, we not only preserve the natural environment for future generations but also enhance our own lives through better health, cleaner air, and a deeper connection with nature.
