The Premier League has taken a major step towards environmental leadership in sport, launching its first Environmental Sustainability Strategy. The new plan sets bold climate targets, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and reaching net zero emissions by 2040, in line with the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework. This is more than a symbolic move. As the world’s most-watched football league, the Premier League is using its global platform to influence behaviour, drive innovation, and lead by example.
The strategy is built around three core focus areas that reflect the most pressing environmental challenges facing football:
- Climate Action – Reducing emissions and supporting climate resilience
- Resource Efficiency – Minimising waste and promoting circular economy practices
- Biodiversity and Nature – Protecting ecosystems and improving access to green spaces
Strategic Priorities to Drive Change
To deliver against these focus areas, the League has outlined three strategic priorities:
- Adapt the Business
- Embed environmental sustainability into Adapt the Business core operations
- Implement an Environmental Management System by 2026/27
- Report annually on progress toward net zero
- Future-Proof the Game
- Help clubs minimum environmental standards
- Support decarbonisation across the League
- Facilitate knowledge sharing through a Club Sustainability Working Group
- Engage and Inspire
- Reach 50 million people with sustainability messaging by 2027
- Deliver educational content through initiatives like Premier League Primary Stars and Premier League Inspires
- Showcase success stories and promote behavioural change among fans and communities
Practical Action on the Ground
The strategy goes beyond high-level commitments. Key initiatives include:
- LED Floodlights Across the Pyramid: A £9 million investment in LED lighting through the Premier League Stadium Fund will cut energy use and emissions at all levels of the game
- Mandatory Club Policies: All 20 Premier League clubs are required to develop environmental policies and emissions data by 2026
- Low-Carbon Matchdays: Clubs are encouraged to improve energy efficiency, promote low-emission transport, and reduce matchday waste
A Turning Point for Sustainability in Sport
At Net Zero Group, we’re encouraged by the Premier League’s leadership. From our work with Lord’s Cricket Ground, Glamorgan CCC, and World Netball, we’ve seen first-hand how sport can accelerate climate action. The Premier League’s strategy could mark a turning point, one that pushes the entire sector toward more sustainable operations.
The message is clear: environmental sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-have” for professional sport, it’s a must. And with the Premier League setting the pace, the opportunity for impact is massive.
References:
https://www.edie.net/premier-league-publishes-flagship-environmental-sustainability-strategy
