FC Barcelona (FCB), a champion contender of La Liga for the 2024–25 season, has continued its strong lead on the field. While off the pitch, the club is emerging as a leader in sustainability, placing itself as one of the most eco-conscious football clubs.
As fans celebrate the club’s iconic moments, FC Barcelona is also making significant strides in cutting carbon emissions and moving toward its net-zero goal. Through its comprehensive climate strategy and ambitious 2021–2026 Strategic Plan, the club aims to reduce its environmental footprint and set new benchmarks for sustainability in the world’s most popular sport.
FC Barcelona’s Net Zero Efforts
From the energy consumed in stadiums to the carbon footprint of player travel, football or soccer has a significant environmental footprint. The game’s total carbon footprint is estimated at about 64 to 66 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) each year.
- This is roughly the same as the yearly emissions of Austria and about 60% higher than the emissions of Uruguay.
As the sport gains more attention, it’s crucial for clubs to lead by example in mitigating their environmental impact. FC Barcelona has recognized the urgency of climate action and has committed to reducing its carbon footprint. As a club with a rich history and a large fan base, Barcelona’s actions can influence not just the sport but the wider community.
FCB’s Key Climate Actions
FC Barcelona has embedded ambitious sustainability goals into its 2021–2026 Strategic Plan. The club aims to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions and Zero Waste by 2030.
These targets are driven by infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy use, and circular economy practices. Sustainability is being integrated into both on-field and off-field operations.
Key Targets and Initiatives
- Net Zero Emissions by 2030
A €0.50 environmental fee is added to tickets for the Barça Immersive Tour and the future museum. Funds go toward:- Installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations
- Transitioning facilities to 100% renewable energy sources
- Zero Waste by 2030
During the Spotify Camp Nou renovation:- 100% of the concrete from the third-tier demolition is recycled and reused in new construction
In the 2021/22 season, FC Barcelona produced a carbon footprint of 1,190 tonnes of CO₂. This number shows how much carbon the club added to the atmosphere through its activities. Most of these emissions came from:
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Using natural gas, which caused about 61% of the total emissions.
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Leaking gases from cooling systems, which added about 34%.
There were no extra emissions from electricity use because all of the club’s electricity came from 100% renewable energy. If the club had used regular electricity from fossil fuels, it would have created 2,692 more tonnes of CO₂.
FCB’s Carbon Footprint Reduction Measures
The Espai Barça Project supports the club’s carbon reduction goals. It includes many upgrades for sustainable infrastructure. The revamped Spotify Camp Nou will feature 18,000 m² of solar panels, expected to generate significant renewable energy on-site.
The stadium design includes rainwater collection systems, which aim to reduce water use by 20%. They also plan to save about 40% in energy per attendee.
In terms of material recycling, a dedicated on-site plant processes both concrete and steel from the old structure. Notably, about 97% of recycled steel is used in the new stadium. This helps reduce the carbon footprint from construction materials.
FC Barcelona’s environmental work is confirmed by its renewed Biosphere certification. This aligns with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This recognition underscores the club’s initiatives in climate change mitigation, sustainable energy use, and responsible consumption.
The club’s sustainability strategy goes beyond infrastructure. It aims to reduce travel emissions, manage energy use, and engage the community. Key measures include:
- Encouraging fuel-efficient flights.
- Promoting public transport and electric vehicle use for players and staff.
- Partnering with renewable energy providers for all club facilities.
The club has expanded fan campaigns to promote recycling and eco-friendly matchday habits. Also, the Barça Foundation offers programs that teach young people about sustainability through sports.
Beyond the Pitch: Partnerships and Global Green Pledges
FC Barcelona also amplifies its impact through global partnerships and commitments. The club teamed up with Plastiks, a blockchain project for plastic recovery. Together, they’ve recovered more than 1 million kilograms of plastic waste. Fans engage in this initiative through digital incentives.
Additionally, FC Barcelona:
- Holds United Nations Global Compact certification for environmental and social responsibility
- Aligns with the EU Green Deal, supporting a carbon-neutral economy by 2050
- Participates actively in the European Club Association (ECA) to reduce football’s collective carbon footprint.
The Sustainability Derby: How FCB, Madrid & Atlético Stack Up
FC Barcelona leads in climate action. However, its La Liga rivals, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, are also making big moves toward sustainability. Each club has its own way to cut carbon footprints, aiming to help with the global climate effort.
FC Barcelona is working hard to become more sustainable. A key part of this effort is renovating Spotify Camp Nou as part of their climate strategy. The club has reduced its carbon footprint through energy-efficient upgrades. These include the installation of solar panels at the stadium and training facilities.
Real Madrid is working hard to make the Santiago Bernabéu one of the most energy-efficient stadiums in Europe. The club is upgrading with a €900 million renovation. They are adding LED lighting, renewable energy systems, and water-saving technologies.
Moreover, Real Madrid now has an electric bus fleet for staff and players. This change cuts down on carbon emissions from travel. The club is also working towards carbon neutrality for its operations, including match days and training camps. This marks an important commitment to sustainability across all levels of its activities and to reach its 2040 net-zero goal.
Atlético Madrid has embraced sustainable infrastructure and a focus on reducing waste. It targets net-zero emissions by 2040. The club’s Metropolitano Stadium features energy-efficient lighting, geothermal systems, and renewable energy use.
Additionally, Atlético Madrid is also focusing on cutting plastic waste. They provide biodegradable products and invite fans to join in recycling efforts. One innovative part of its sustainability efforts is the “Play Green” third kit. Made from recycled materials, it promotes eco-friendly fashion to fans.
Atlético is also starting a carbon offset program for travel. This program aims to cut emissions from player and staff movements.
Here’s how FC Barcelona’s net-zero strategy and efforts compare with its close rivals.
These clubs represent some of the best examples of sustainability within the football industry, each taking concrete steps to reduce their environmental impact. FC Barcelona is a leader in circular economy efforts and renewable energy at its stadium.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s costly renovation of the Bernabéu sets a new benchmark for energy-efficient sports venues. Atlético Madrid shines in two key areas: infrastructure and fan engagement. They use sustainable kits and work on waste reduction efforts.
With the race for sustainability leadership heating up, these clubs push limits. They help shape the future of climate action in sports.
A Global Green Gameplan
FC Barcelona’s commitment to sustainability is part of a much larger movement within football. Football clubs around the world are realizing their impact on the environment. They are now taking steps to reduce it. This shift comes from clubs, fans, governing bodies, and sponsors. They all want greener practices in the sport.
Football’s Governing Bodies Lead the Charge
Organizations like the European Club Association (ECA), Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), and FIFA have developed strategies to guide clubs towards sustainable practices. The ECA’s Sustainability Working Group urges clubs to set emissions reduction goals and build green infrastructure.
Meanwhile, FIFA launched its Sustainability Strategy in 2019. The aim is to lessen the environmental impact of football events globally. It also seeks to improve sustainability in the sport at every level.
Leading Leagues and Clubs Promote Change
In the Premier League, clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City have embraced sustainability. The Premier League Sustainability Strategy, launched in 2023, urges all 20 clubs to reduce emissions, cut waste, and actively engage with local communities.
The Sports Positive League Table ranks clubs by their sustainability. This sparks healthy competition for improved ESG practices. Across Europe, VfL Wolfsburg in Germany became carbon neutral in 2012 and now runs on 100% renewable energy, setting a high bar for other clubs.
Ajax Amsterdam powers the Johan Cruijff Arena with solar panels, wind energy, and a 3-megawatt battery storage system. This makes it one of the greenest stadiums in Europe.
Seattle Sounders FC in the MLS is making great strides in sustainability. They are offsetting travel emissions and promoting zero-waste matchdays. The goal is to make American soccer more sustainable.
Small Clubs, Big Impact
Even smaller clubs are making a difference. In England’s League Two, Forest Green Rovers stands out as the greenest football club. They offer a vegan menu at their stadium, use solar power, and maintain an organic pitch.
These efforts show how FC Barcelona is part of a broader global trend, with clubs working together to drive sustainability in football. By sharing best practices, they are collectively making a significant impact on climate action.
FC Barcelona’s Green Strategy Sets the Pace
FC Barcelona’s climate and net-zero strategy shows how football can contribute to a more sustainable world. The club is taking real steps to cut its environmental impact. They are renovating Spotify Camp Nou, launching renewable energy projects, and forming important partnerships.
FC Barcelona faces challenges, but its efforts inspire other clubs. They show that sustainability can fit well into big sports organizations like football.
