Football fans to help shape climate action at Brentford stadium
Fans invited to share ideas on the sport's environmental response
Football is confronting the environmental challenges posed by climate change.
A new initiative led by the University of Brighton is inviting fans to contribute ideas on how the sport can respond effectively.
Researchers have highlighted football's significant carbon footprint, with the global game producing an estimated 64 to 66 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent annually.
UK statistics show around 950 sports shirts sent to landfill every minute, and by 2050, one in four football grounds here could face flood risks.
The project, supported by the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) and Loughborough University, aims to harness the collective power of football supporters.
Set to launch with a workshop at Brentford Community Stadium on Sunday 27th September, the initiative will offer FSA members a chance to discuss football's role in climate change.
Interested participants can register until 9th August, and limited places mean early applications are encouraged.
Workshop Approach
Researchers seek to engage fans directly, moving away from conventional surveys.
The project will ensure supporters' voices are included in future climate policy discussions with clubs and governing bodies.
Professor Julie Doyle from the University of Brighton emphasised the importance of fan involvement, stating that the sport's environmental impact is becoming increasingly evident.
She noted, “Supporters are one of football’s greatest strengths, yet they're often left out of conversations about climate action.”
Professor Doyle added, “We want to change that by giving fans the opportunity to share their ideas about how football can respond in ways that feel meaningful, practical and rooted in football culture.”
Richard Irving from the FSA expressed enthusiasm about supporter participation, highlighting the role of the FSA’s Green Working Group and praising partnerships like Pledgeball and the Green Football Weekend.
Irving remarked, “We’re delighted to be part of this climate action project,” citing its potential for fostering understanding of environmental challenges within football.
Dr Mark Doidge from Loughborough University focused on the disruption caused by climate change, with fans and players affected by extreme weather and pollution.
Dr Doidge commented, “Whilst football contributes to climate change, its biggest power is the cultural influence it has with players and fans.”
Project Goals
The initiative aims to demonstrate the potential of football fans having a more active role in shaping climate action.
Acknowledging past research by Professor Doyle on climate communication in football, it highlights the gap between clubs’ sustainability efforts and fan engagement.
The project is funded through the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Impact Acceleration Account and hopes to apply research into impactful real-world solutions.
The invitation extends to FSA members aged 18 and over from across the UK.
Travel expenses will be covered and no prior knowledge of climate change is required.