Premier League clubs must take decisive action to align themselves with the global fight against climate change, according to Chris Boardman, the chair of Sport England. In a keynote speech at the Sport Positive Summit, as reported by the Guardian, Boardman will question the environmental impact of 10 Premier League clubs flying to the US for pre-season friendlies, as well as Tottenham and Newcastle's match in Melbourne just days after the season's end.
The former Olympic cyclist, who won gold, will urge clubs to cease short-haul flights, reduce single-use plastic consumption, and prioritize lower-carbon meals. Boardman's call to action is particularly significant given his role at a funding body that allocates £250 million annually to sports, including £440 million in national lottery and government funds to football over the past two decades.
"In the UK, football is our national game," Boardman will state. "The Premier League boasts the world's most popular sports league, with a reach and influence that is unmatched. Yet, we are witnessing inconsistent environmental actions." He points out that half of the Premier League clubs traveled to the United States this year for friendlies, with Manchester United flying nearly 13,000 miles for matches in Norway, Scotland, and the US. Tottenham and Newcastle, meanwhile, flew to Melbourne for a post-season exhibition, a move described by Alan Shearer as 'madness'.
Boardman acknowledges that he is a pragmatist, not an absolutist, and does not advocate for outright bans on flying. However, he emphasizes the need for a better balance. "It is time for our top football clubs to step up and position themselves on the right side of history," he will say. Boardman also commends Southampton and West Ham for playing against local non-league clubs, which not only supports the football pyramid's sustainability but also boosts local economies.
He highlights the "fantastic work" of the Football Association and clubs like Forest Green Rovers, Bristol City, Watford, and Plymouth Argyle. Lewes, known for its community garden, recycled kits, and vegan menu, is also praised. Boardman suggests that clubs can take simple steps such as encouraging fans to use sustainable transport, reducing single-use plastics, promoting clean energy, and prioritizing low-carbon menus.
Boardman also addresses FIFA's announcement of the 2030 World Cup being hosted on three continents, which has been criticized for potentially increasing carbon footprints. He questions UEFA's expansion of its men's European club competitions, which will add 177 games per season, prioritizing growth over environmental concerns. Boardman calls on Britain's top sports stars to advocate for climate action, noting that 65% of UK children want to see sports stars championing efforts to tackle climate change.
