Leith and Campaign for Better Transport have unveiled a new Premier League trophy, the Black Boot. This trophy highlights clubs with the worst carbon footprints.
After a revealing 2023 study, it was found that Premier League clubs opted for air travel for 80% of their journeys. This new initiative aims to bring significant change.
Purpose of the Black Boot Trophy
The Black Boot Trophy is introduced to shame Premier League clubs into reducing their carbon footprint. By recognising the worst polluters, the initiative hopes to push teams towards more sustainable travel options.
In partnership with the Campaign for Better Transport, this trophy is awarded for ‘outstanding contributions to football’s carbon footprint’. Clubs are encouraged to reconsider their transportation choices for domestic matches.
Findings of the 2023 Study
The 2023 study highlighted that Premier League clubs took 80% of their journeys by plane. This startling statistic has drawn significant attention and concern.
On average, these flights lasted 42 minutes, with some as short as 27 minutes. Such short trips could easily be taken by train or coach, which are more environmentally friendly.
Environmental Impact of Air Travel
Domestic flights produce 246g of CO2 per passenger. This is seven times more than what train travel emits.
Clubs can make a substantial impact by choosing rail or coach travel over flights. The aim is to push teams to make eco-friendly choices. Air travel for short domestic trips is seen as an unnecessary luxury with high environmental costs.
Reducing the number of flights would significantly cut down on the carbon emissions of each club. It’s a step towards making football more sustainable.
Campaign Activities and Fan Involvement
Throughout the season, the worst offenders will be highlighted on Black Boot’s X account and website. Fans are encouraged to monitor player and club social feeds for unsustainable travel habits.
Awards such as Player of the Season, Man of the Match, and Team of the Month will be given to the most and least sustainable travellers.
Fans play a critical role in this campaign. They are urged to report any unsustainable travel they notice. This crowdsourced monitoring keeps clubs accountable.
Expert Opinions
Michael Solomon Williams from the Campaign for Better Transport emphasised the environmental damage caused by domestic flights. He stated, ‘Domestic flights are simply bad news for the planet, especially when the same journey could be taken by train or coach.’
He urged football clubs to adopt more sustainable travel methods, highlighting their significant role in combating climate change. His call to action is a wake-up call for the sporting world.
Leith’s senior creative, Samuel Muir, echoed these sentiments. He mentioned, ‘The majority of club’s domestic flights are completely unnecessary.’ He stressed the importance of shaming clubs into action.
A Call to Action for Football Clubs
Football clubs are being urged to reconsider their travel habits. They have the power to set an example for fans worldwide by choosing more sustainable travel options.
The Black Boot Trophy aims to instil a sense of responsibility within the football community. By shining a spotlight on the worst offenders, it hopes to drive real change.
By participating in this initiative, clubs can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. It’s a positive step towards a greener future for football.
How to Follow the Campaign
To stay updated on the campaign’s progress, fans can follow @BlackBootTrophy on X and visit blackboot.net. The website and social media will provide regular updates on clubs’ travel habits and the ongoing award progress.
The Black Boot Trophy serves as a stark reminder of football’s environmental impact. By shaming the worst polluters, it pushes for necessary changes.
Football clubs have a responsibility to lead in the fight against climate change. The Black Boot Trophy is a step towards a greener, more sustainable future.