Germany is aiming to make EURO 2024 the greenest football tournament ever, with ambitions to reduce emissions by 60% if national teams opt out of flying and choose train or coach travel. Unfortunately, only Germany, Portugal, and Switzerland have made pledges to cut out flying. Despite efforts by UEFA and host Germany to promote sustainable travel, only three teams have committed to more sustainable transportation methods.
The upcoming tournament will feature 24 teams, including top players like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé, competing across 10 German cities. T&E found that if teams like France – a favorite to win – switch from air to rail or road travel, they could drastically reduce their CO2 emissions. France alone could slash emissions by 97% in the group stage and up to 96% if they reach the final. The efforts of individual teams to choose sustainable travel options could have a significant impact on reducing overall emissions during the tournament.
UEFA and Germany have focused on reducing emissions from transport, with group stage matches located close to each other to minimize travel time and related emissions. Ticket holders will receive a travel card for public transport in host cities, and the Deutsche Bahn is offering reduced prices for travel around the country. Despite these efforts, national teams have been slow to commit to sustainable travel options, with only three out of 24 teams making pledges to opt out of flying during the tournament.
Germany has pledged to not fly during the group stage, reducing potential emissions by 98%, but has not yet commented on plans for the knockout rounds. Switzerland has agreed to travel by bus to their basecamp, while Portugal has committed to shifting to road travel for two out of three group matches. Portugal also expressed intention to report travel emissions during the tournament to set reduction targets for future events. The lack of commitment from national teams to travel sustainably highlights the importance of individual action in reducing emissions during major events like EURO 2024.
Efforts by T&E and other climate groups across Europe have been made to urge national teams to commit to more sustainable travel options. The focus on reducing emissions from transport during the tournament reflects a broader recognition of the environmental impact of major sporting events. By choosing train or coach travel over flying, national teams can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and set an example for fans and spectators. Ultimately, the success of efforts to make EURO 2024 the greenest tournament ever will depend on the willingness of teams to prioritize sustainability in their travel choices.
