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Football and a Sustainable Future 

Football has long been a unifying force, bringing communities together across Wales. The Football Association of Wales is expanding this impact by embracing environmental sustainability and encouraging fans, clubs, and communities to do the same.

Ahead of Cymru v Montenegro on 14 October 2024, the FAW is hosting ‘Football and a Sustainable Future‘, an event designed to highlight how football can drive change in addressing climate challenges.

Learn more about these initiatives and how you can support.

Embracing the Circular Economy: Reducing Football’s Environmental Footprint 

Football has an undeniable environmental impact, but the FAW is actively working to change that by embedding the ‘4R approach’—reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover. This aligns with UEFA’s Circular Economy Guidelines, and the FAW are proud to be collaborating with clubs and key stakeholders to minimise football’s environmental footprint. 

Forest-Friendly Actions: How You Can Help 

Earth is in a climate emergency, with forests under threat globally. ‘Size of Wales’, a leading environmental charity, has highlighted that 11 million hectares of tropical forests are lost annually, equivalent to nearly six times the size of Wales.

Take action by learning how you can support forest conservation efforts:
Forest-friendly actions from Size of Wales

Help Save Nature with the RSPB 

From transforming your backyard into a mini nature reserve to collecting vital environmental data, every small effort matters. 

The RSPB offers opportunities for you to get involved, whether you’re at home or at your local football club. 

A Cleaner Wales with Keep Wales Tidy 

Communities across Wales are coming together to create cleaner, safer spaces. Thanks to Keep Wales Tidy, over 200 Litter Picking Hubs are now available, offering free equipment for anyone wanting to clean up their local area. By participating, you’re not just cleaning up litter; you’re contributing to a healthier, greener environment.

Find your nearest Litter Picking Hub and start today:
Keep Wales Tidy Litter Picking Hubs

Would your club like to become a Litter Picking Hub? It’s easy to get started.
Register your club here

Tackling Climate Change with the National Trust 

Climate change is affecting every aspect of our lives, and football is no exception. The National Trust offers simple but effective ways for individuals to contribute toward tackling climate change. Whether you’re a player, coach, volunteer, or fan, you can be part of the solution.

Discover ways to reduce your environmental impact:
Join the climate change fight with the National Trust

Sustainable Fan Travel: Be Part of the Change 

At the Montenegro match, the FAW will challenge Y Wal Goch to continue leading the way in sustainable fan travel. Last campaign, 55.5% of Cymru fans in Cardiff used sustainable travel options. This year, we aim for 60%.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Fans travelling by coach save 144g of CO2 emissions per km compared to a car with one passenger.
  • Fans using rail save 130g of CO2 emissions per km.
  • Car-sharing reduces emissions by 128g of CO2 per km.

We encourage fans to walk or cycle where possible. Not only does this reduce your carbon footprint, but it’s great for your health and fitness too. Walking just 30 minutes a day can improve heart and lung fitness whilst reduce the risk of chronic disease and stress. For matches at Cardiff City Stadium bike racks are situated in the undercroft of the Ninian stand.

Join the Movement Toward a Sustainable Future 

Football has the power to bring people together, and with that power comes the responsibility to drive positive change. Whether it’s supporting circular economy efforts, protecting forests, or opting for sustainable travel, every small action adds up.

This is your chance to be part of the solution. Find out more at faw.cymru/faw-sustainability/

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