A new handbook has been published to support grassroots and sport for development organisations around environmental sustainability.
The ‘Fields of Change’ handbook, created by Football For Future and Common Goal, compiles learning and insight from a year-long collaboration between nine sport for good organisations across the world, and offers practical tools and guidance around climate action.
adidas has supported the creation and distribution of the handbook as part of its Move for the Planet initiative.
ACTION
Sport is increasingly being impacted by climate change with issues including freezing or flooding community pitches; extreme heat affecting athlete health; poor air quality and limited access to sporting and physical activity opportunities for disadvantaged communities.
‘Fields of Change’ seeks to provide organisations with the tools to adapt to these challenges while driving meaningful environmental action.
Arsenal and Colombia goalkeeper Alexei Rojas commented: “The Fields of Change handbook is such an inspiring step forward as it can be embraced by all sport-based organisations at the heart of our communities throughout the continent, while also being part of a wider international collective of changemakers in sport.”
Elliot Arthur-Worsop, Football For Future founder, added: “Fields of Change is a significant milestone in the journey toward sustainable sport. For the first time, community sports organisations have a resource that empowers them to protect their communities, support their environment, and lead the way in climate action.
“Through this handbook, we’re seeing the immense potential of sport to not only inspire but also actively drive change at the very heart of our communities.”
IMPACTS
The handbook covers key sustainability topics, ranging from how sport can lead both operationally and socially toward a sustainable future, to guidance on sustainable infrastructure including how how to measure, mitigate and adapt to reduce environmental impacts.
Jérémy Houssin, Common Goal Sustainability and Environmental Lead said: “We are thrilled to have collaborated with Football For Future and adidas on this project, showing that even small steps, taken together, can spark global momentum. This resource is a testament to what’s possible when we prioritise our planet’s future and work together across all levels of sport.”
