Football, a beloved sport worldwide, carries a considerable environmental footprint. The thriving $100 billion football apparel market heavily relies on synthetic materials, predominantly non-recyclable polyester. Our analysis reveals that this production contributes to approximately 0.04% of global carbon emissions, a figure equivalent to a staggering 20% of emissions from air travel. Moreover, discarded football gear constitutes a significant portion of waste, accounting for 5% of textile landfill waste and contributing to 2% of microplastic proliferation in oceans.
Green Bag offers a tangible solution by establishing designated collection points for used football gear at clubs, pitches, and other frequented locations. These Green Bags provide two primary avenues:
- Reuse: Usable garments undergo meticulous sorting and are redistributed locally for resale or repurposing. Any surplus items are transported with net-zero emissions for further redistribution or repurposing on a national or international scale. Our ultimate objective is to ensure that no functional football gear ends up in landfills.
- Recycling: Non-reusable items are responsibly recycled under Green Bag supervision, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Green Bag transcends mere physical collection to serve as a platform for communication, raising awareness and driving engagement towards a sustainable football apparel industry.
- Education: We aim to enlighten clubs, players, and parents about the importance of utilizing recyclable materials and to foster a shift in consumer preferences. Additionally, this platform empowers brands and manufacturers offering sustainable alternatives to reach their target audience effectively.
- #2 Pro-Team: A dedicated team of professional footballers, known as #2 Pro-Team, trained as environmental advocates, collaborates with We Play Green Media House to promote Green Bag and advocate for a sustainable garment industry. Our goal is to recruit #2 players from major football nations to maximize global outreach within the football community.
- Building a Green Community: Green Bag seeks collaboration with various stakeholders, including politicians, national/international football associations, clubs, sponsors, media, and brands and manufacturers of football gear.
Join the Movement:
Green Bag, alongside Oslo 2030, has garnered international recognition and support. While our project aspires to achieve self-sufficiency in the long term, your assistance is vital for its initial launch. Together, let’s make football greener!
