Water save! Football clubs kicking out wastage

There may only be one winner in football, but not when it comes to water efficiency. A recent report from the Sport Positive League has crowned Tottenham Hotspur FC and Liverpool FC joint-champions when it comes to their environmental credentials.

The report evaluates Premier League clubs on a number of key issues, including water efficiency, as well as environmental commitments and policies, use of clean energy, energy efficiency, sustainable transport, waste management, single use plastic reduction/removal, the availability of low-carbon/plant based food, biodiversity, education and communications/engagement.

Both clubs scored 23 points out of a maximum of 24, showing their holistic commitment to environmental sustainability through every part of the organisation.

"As a football club with a global fan base we’re proud to be leading the way on important environmental issues."

Billy Hogan, Liverpool FC

All information about the clubs efforts and the entire league table can be viewed here.

Reacting to the news, Billy Hogan Liverpool’s chief executive commented, “This is a great achievement for the club, as we continue to create and build a sustainable business, and a sustainable club. Congratulations to Tottenham Hotspur who we share this top spot with.

“As a football club with a global fan base we’re proud to be leading the way on important environmental issues. The Red Way has achieved a lot in its first year. There is so much more to do, but the club has created a solid foundation and is committed to building on this achievement. As we move forward, we will constantly evaluate the way we operate, to operate in the most sustainable way.

“We will continue to strive to provide the tools and opportunities for everyone connected to the club to take meaningful actions that will create a healthy planet and thriving communities.”

Donna-Maria Cullen, executive director, Tottenham Hotspur, said “To have once again been named at the top of the Sport Positive League Table is fantastic recognition for the work that continues to be delivered across our organisation – now we must challenge ourselves to go further."

Sport Positive has systematically collated key environmental sustainability information for every Premier League football club. The categories reflect the environmental impacts of putting on a football match, and initiatives that are under way at clubs, put together in an easy and digestible format.

For the 2021 update we have introduced two new categories; on biodiversity and education, have once again enhanced the points system, awarding more points to clubs that are working strategically across all club sites and operations, have policies in place, and are engaging fans, staff and players in their work. Additional points have been added for external commitments to net zero, and having their efforts certified.

To access the updated points allocation key here.

Once again, we can see incredible strides – even in the shadow of Covid19 – and all of the clubs are in the process of intensifying their efforts, with announcements expected as soon as the next couple of weeks that will change the rankings again. Keep checking back for updates on your club’s progress. We are #sportpositive.

Please scroll down for complete information on initiatives per category, and click through links to even more information. We have also put together a short Q&A paper, covering some of the questions we get quite frequently about this work, check it out here.

“Joint champions may be impossible in football, but I’ve got no problem with it when it comes to tackling climate change.”

Sport Positive Leagues Founder Claire Poole