Arsenal Football Club, a leading London-based team in the English Premier League, became the first club in the league to join the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework.
This move underscores the club’s dedication to combating climate change, building on its recognition as the most sustainable Premier League club in a 2019 study by the BBC and the United Nations, supported by the Sport Positive Summit.
Framework Objectives
The UN Sports for Climate Action Framework unites the global sports community to support the 2016 Paris Climate Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature increases to well below 2°C (3.6°F) above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to cap it at 1.5°C (2.7°F) to significantly reduce climate change risks. The initiative also promotes climate neutrality by 2050. Other signatories include FIFA, the Football Association, the International Olympic Committee, and Sky Sports.
The framework is guided by five core principles:
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Promoting greater environmental responsibility through systematic efforts.
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Reducing overall climate impact.
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Educating stakeholders about climate action.
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Encouraging sustainable and responsible consumption.
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Advocating for climate action through effective communication.
Arsenal’s Sustainability Efforts
Arsenal has already implemented several eco-friendly initiatives. Since partnering with Octopus Energy in 2016, the club became the first in the Premier League to use 100% renewable electricity.
Additionally, a recent collaboration with Ball Corporation, an aluminum packaging company, aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the club and its global fanbase.
Statements from Key Figures
Hywel Sloman, Arsenal’s Operations Director, stated, “Arsenal is proud to lead sustainability efforts in the Premier League by joining the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework.
Our partnerships and initiatives, such as using 100% green energy and working with Ball Corporation, reflect our commitment to a sustainable future. We aim to inspire our global community to drive meaningful change.”
Lindita Xhaferi-Salihu, Sports for Climate Action Lead at UN Climate Change, added, “Football has immense influence worldwide, and Arsenal’s participation as the first Premier League club in this initiative is a significant step.
Their commitment helps raise climate awareness and sets an example for fans globally to join us in making a positive impact.”
