Premier League players are hesitant to speak out about climate change due to fears of being labeled hypocrites. David Wheeler, PFA’s sustainability champion, has organized workshops to address these concerns and received positive responses. However, stereotypes about top-level players driving gas-guzzling cars and taking short-haul flights to matches hinder efforts to promote sustainability. Despite this, notable players like Hector Bellerin and Eric Dier have taken steps towards promoting environmental issues in football. Wheeler notes that female players are more engaged in this issue, possibly due to less public scrutiny compared to their male counterparts.
FIFA has faced criticism for striking a deal with Saudi Arabia, the largest polluter in the world, raising concerns about the organization’s commitment to sustainability. Wheeler, along with other players like Marcus Rashford and Burnley’s Josh Brownhill, is passionate about promoting sustainability in football. However, Wheeler acknowledges that for change to occur, high-profile players like Rashford must use their platform to advocate for environmental causes. The PFA’s focus on player welfare aligns with concerns about climate change, as highlighted by figures like Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp who have spoken out about fixture congestion and the environmental impact of excessive travel.
The issue of climate change in football extends beyond player involvement to a systemic level, with clubs justifying short-haul flights by citing congested match schedules. However, clubs like Championship team Millwall have adopted a no-fly policy for away games, highlighting the potential for more sustainable practices within the sport. Wheeler advocates for embedding sustainability initiatives in clubs through the incoming Football Governance Bill, using concerns about fixture congestion as a starting point for promoting environmental awareness. Any athlete who speaks passionately about climate change has the potential to influence change, but a collective effort from players and athletes is crucial in addressing the issue.
Wheeler emphasizes the intersection between player welfare and environmental sustainability, recognizing the benefits of a more sustainable approach for everyone involved in football. He notes that while it may be easier for him as a League One player to advocate for sustainability, high-profile players can make a significant impact by using their platform to address climate change. Female players have shown higher engagement on sustainability issues, possibly due to less public scrutiny. Wheeler’s workshops have received positive feedback, indicating a growing interest among players in addressing the impact of climate change on football.
The importance of player involvement in promoting sustainability in football is evident in recent initiatives taken by individual players and organizations. Leveraging the influence of high-profile athletes like Marcus Rashford and the collective voice of players can drive meaningful change in addressing climate change in football. The reluctance of Premier League players to speak out highlights the need for a shift in mindset and greater awareness among players about the impact of their choices on the environment. By aligning player welfare with environmental sustainability, football can lead by example in adopting more sustainable practices at all levels of the sport.
