Infrastructure sustainability
Article summary
We work with associations, stadiums, clubs and architects to set standards for a new generation of sustainable football venues.
Article top media content
Article body
Football infrastructure of the future will increasingly need to integrate innovation and sustainability into design and construction. Whether building new stadiums or refurbishing training facilities, more sustainable infrastructure will deliver long-term environmental benefits and leave a lasting legacy for local communities.
In 2022, we launched the UEFA Sustainable Infrastructure Guidelines to encourage the European football community as well as public authorities and other stakeholders to embed best environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices into the three stages of a sports venue lifecycle: planning, development and management.
“The main aim in modern-day venues is for stadium and sports facilities to embrace sustainability and become champions of its application in their buildings, in their landscaped grounds and even in the society around them.”
Endorsed by the European Commission, the guidelines were developed with the support of a wide range of experts, representing both the football stakeholder community (UEFA, associations, clubs, stadium operators) and beyond (architects, academics and the European Union).
After introducing the concept and the implementation of ESG, the 182-page document looks at specific topics to consider in planning and designing football infrastructure: purpose, location, design, conception and construction, pitch and landscaping. Other sections cover infrastructure management, including the use of smart technology to maintain pitch quality, waste reduction, and health and safety.
Online working tool
Available in 35 languages, our guidelines are an online working tool and will be updated regularly to take account of the latest trends in technology, legislation and stakeholder requirements. They also include a comprehensive list of case studies.
To raise the bar for European football infrastructure, we run workshops for associations and club sustainability officers explaining how to implement the guidelines and learning lessons from their specific experiences. The European Club Association is also helping us distribute the guidelines to member clubs.
