Despite its significant global influence and impact, sports brands, clubs, and organizations were notably absent from COP28. Among the scattered sports presence, competitions that support sustainability, such as Formula E and Sail GP, discuss their environmental impact, while most others remained silent.
Liverpool at COP28
Liverpool made an unexpected appearance at COP28. Football clubs have traditionally faced criticism from environmental activists, with team transport choices and thus carbon impact regularly scrutinized. In an interview with Al Arabiya English, Rishi Jain, Liverpool’s impact director, acknowledges that this is an obvious area for clubs to start in, but the sustainable approach must go further.
Proven Action
In 2021, Liverpool launched the Red Way, a charter that acknowledges the club’s responsibility to use its voice and take proven action against climate change, equality, diversity, and inclusion. It highlights areas that should be celebrated and areas that need improvement.
Player Commitment
When we seek players’ support on climate issues, we get it, Jain affirms. We have been very strong regarding diversity and inclusion, and the environment is an important step. We have provided awareness sessions for academy players on the Red Way, so there is an increase in awareness, and we hope to spark more conversations.
Opportunities to Engage with Fans
These opportunities mainly revolve around fan engagement. According to a 2023 report from the London School of Marketing, Liverpool is estimated to have 580 million fans worldwide, giving the club a platform to positively influence behavior. If we can convince them all to make just one sustainable lifestyle choice, it would make a significant impact. Speaking here at COP28 is great, but this is a closed republic. They have already transformed, and we know there are expectations from our fanbase to do the right thing as a football club, regardless of the topic. We know our fans are listening to us. It is a big responsibility, but there is a huge opportunity to engage with fans who don’t know much about sustainability, and that’s what we are working on.
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