background image

Soccer tackles its carbon problem

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Wall Street Journal or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Soccer, the world’s most popular sport, faces dual threats from climate change and its own carbon footprint, which exceeds 30 million metric tons annually
Clubs are adopting measures like retrofitting stadiums with renewable energy systems and influencing fan behavior to reduce emissions
High-profile initiatives include New York City FC’s planned all-electric stadium and Amsterdam’s Johan Cruyff Arena's transition to a local energy hub

🔭 The context: The soccer industry is grappling with sustainability amid increasing scrutiny of its environmental impact
Stadium operations, fan travel, and corporate sponsorships with polluting industries contribute significantly to emissions
Efforts to reduce carbon footprints are being pursued alongside calls for stricter regulations and sustainable investments in infrastructure.

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Soccer’s influence offers a unique opportunity to drive sustainable behavior at scale, but the sport’s environmental footprint exacerbates climate risks, such as flooding and extreme heat, which threaten player safety and stadiums
Successful interventions could set an example for other industries while addressing a highly visible global challenge.

⏭️ What's next: Clubs must balance growth with sustainability by investing in renewable energy, enhancing public transportation for fans, and reconsidering partnerships with polluting sponsors
Broader adoption of smart-building technology and international reporting frameworks will likely shape future strategies.

💬 One quote: “Soccer has huge environmental accountability. But it also presents a massive opportunity when it comes to the energy transition,” - Siobahn Meikle, Eaton’s vice president

📈 One stat: The soccer industry’s emissions are on par with Denmark’s annual carbon output—over 30 million metric tons.

Click for more news covering the latest on carbon and sustainable sport

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team - providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day.

Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)