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  • adam7478
    • Jan 29
    • 3 min read

Sustainable Goals in Football: Leicester Nirvana's Net Zero Journey

Updated: Mar 4

Ian C Jones

Berkshire UK • 07469018888 Ian@newgatetrading.co.uk  • LinkedIn

Leicester Nirvana Sustainability

Introduction to Leicester Nirvana's Net Zero Journey

Football and sustainability might seem like an odd match, especially when major clubs flaunt private jets and contribute significantly to environmental degradation. However, the landscape is changing. In this article, we delve into Leicester Nirvana FC's groundbreaking journey towards becoming the first grassroots football club to achieve net zero emissions.


Find out how Sporting clubs can access free carbon literacy training here https://www.newgatetrading.co.uk/post/free-carbon-literacy-training-course


The Environmental Scoreboard: Manchester City's Emission Hike

Late last year, Manchester City shocked the football community by revealing a 50% increase in emissions due to increased matches and fan attendance. Fran James raised concerns about the lack of clarity in reporting emissions across clubs.


Grassroots Leading the Way: Leicester Nirvana FC's Pledge

In contrast, Leicester Nirvana FC, a volunteer-led grassroots club, made headlines by pledging to achieve net zero emissions. Partnering with De Montfort University, they embarked on a groundbreaking Net Zero Football Project, setting an example for the entire football industry.


Measuring Carbon Footprints: A First for Grassroots Clubs

With the assistance of De Montfort University researchers, Leicester Nirvana FC undertook a comprehensive study, measuring carbon emissions across all scopes. The study, a pioneering effort, aims to create a framework for other sports clubs and tackle environmental challenges in travel, kits, diets, and club operations.


Unveiling the Culprits: Energy, Travel, and More

The university's data unveiled Leicester Nirvana's major emissions sources, primarily from energy use (gas and electricity at 70%) and travel (27% of players and families to matches). The insights allow targeted interventions for effective emissions reduction.


Starting from the (Grass)Roots

Leicester Nirvana trustee Ivan Liburd initiated the Net Zero Football Project, envisioning a training site powered by renewable energy. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the club aimed to intertwine sustainability with its community-centric ethos.

Grassroot Challenges: Tackling Emissions on a Tight Budget

Transport emerged as a significant emission source for Leicester Nirvana, mirroring challenges faced by larger clubs. Implementing sustainable practices, however, proves complex for volunteer-led grassroots clubs with limited budgets.


Strategic Plans: Leicester Nirvana's Roadmap to Net Zero

Despite financial constraints, Leicester Nirvana crafted a strategic plan to achieve net zero. Exploring partnerships for funding, including reaching out to sporting brands like Puma, the club aims to implement eco-friendly initiatives such as solar panels and sustainable player kits.


Beyond Climate Change: Football Clubs and Diverse Challenges

Leicester Nirvana's project has garnered global interest, revealing that football clubs tackle diverse issues beyond climate change. A Spanish club prioritized accessibility for people with disabilities, emphasizing the multifaceted challenges clubs face.


Redefining Sustainability: Leicester Nirvana's Holistic Approach

Traditionally viewing sustainability as irrelevant, Leicester Nirvana underwent a paradigm shift. Trustee Ivan Liburd emphasized the importance of considering both social and environmental aspects, aligning with the UN's holistic Sustainable Development Goals.


Find out how Sporting clubs can access free carbon literacy training here https://www.newgatetrading.co.uk/post/free-carbon-literacy-training-course


Conclusion

Leicester Nirvana FC's journey to net zero serves as a beacon of hope for grassroots football clubs worldwide. By addressing emissions, the club not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also strives to align with broader societal goals.


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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How did Leicester Nirvana FC measure its carbon emissions?

  • The club partnered with De Montfort University researchers for a comprehensive study as part of the Net Zero Football Project.

  1. What are the major sources of emissions for Leicester Nirvana FC?

  • The largest emissions come from energy use (gas and electricity) at 70%, followed by player and family travel at 27%.

  1. How does Leicester Nirvana plan to fund its sustainable initiatives?

  • The club is exploring partnerships, including reaching out to sporting brands like Puma, to secure funding for eco-friendly projects.

  1. What challenges do grassroots football clubs face in adopting sustainable practices?

  • Volunteer-led organizations like Leicester Nirvana face financial challenges in implementing eco-friendly initiatives, posing barriers to sustainability.

  1. Why is Leicester Nirvana's approach considered holistic?

  • The club aims to address not only environmental sustainability but also social-economic issues, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.



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