In a historic move, Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham, UK, hosted the first-of-its-kind Go Green cricket game during the England vs. New Zealand T20 match. This initiative marked a significant step towards envisioning a more sustainable future for cricket. Edgbaston Stadium, with a seating capacity of 25,000, showcased its commitment to sustainability by relying entirely on wind, hydro, and solar power to run the venue during the match. This eco-friendly approach is set to continue throughout September.
Plantable Cards and Sustainable Packaging
The traditional four and six cards waved by spectators were transformed using ‘seed paper.’ When planted at home, these cards will bloom into beautiful wildflowers, promoting biodiversity. Additionally, sustainable packaging, lined with seaweed, was used to wrap spectators’ food, aligning with the eco-conscious theme.
Edgbaston’s groundkeepers opted for electric lawnmowers and rollers to prepare the playing surface, reducing the stadium’s carbon footprint. This shift towards electric alternatives represents a forward-thinking approach to venue management.
In a bid to reduce their environmental impact, Edgbaston removed red meat from their hospitality menus. While burger vans around the ground continued to serve meat options, this decision reflects the venue’s commitment to sustainable practices.
What sets this event apart is the meticulous calculation of its carbon footprint. Every aspect of the match, from electricity consumption to food preparation, will be assessed and reported. This data-driven approach aims to identify areas where further sustainability improvements can be made.
Addressing Emissions from Spectator Travel
A trial conducted during T20 Finals Day at Edgbaston in the previous year revealed that a significant portion of emissions resulted from spectator and staff travel. To address this, free shuttle buses were provided this year to encourage the use of public transportation. Car parks at the venue were also temporarily closed.
The sport of cricket faces the uncomfortable reality of climate change. Reports indicate that cricket, with its reliance on pitches and fields, is among the most vulnerable sports to the impacts of a changing climate. Grounds across England and Wales, including many in the recreational game, are at risk due to factors such as droughts and floods.
Edgbaston’s commitment to sustainability aligns with broader efforts within cricket. Other venues, such as Lord’s and The Kia Oval, have made strides in adopting renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Counties like Surrey and Gloucestershire have pledged to achieve Net Zero status by 2030.
Edgbaston’s Go Green game serves as an inspiration, paving the way for sustainable cricket practices. The hope is for similar eco-conscious initiatives to become commonplace at every cricket match across various venues. Edgbaston aims to establish sustainability as the norm within the next two years.
