Earlier this year, we featured the Netherlands' first climate-neutral soccer match. Now, cricket is joining the green arena as Edgbaston Stadium organizes a 'Go Green Game.' This sold-out Men's Vitality IT20 match against New Zealand on 3 September 2023 is touted as UK cricket's first sustainable major match.
Over the past 12 months, Edgbaston already took substantial steps towards environmental stewardship, reducing waste by a third and switching to low-energy LED lights. A longer-running reusable cup initiative saved over half a million plastic cups from waste. The stadium also uses 80% locally sourced produce in its kitchens, working with Fordhall Farm — a community-owned organic farm — as its exclusive food catering partner.
For the upcoming Kiwis game, Edgbaston is doubling down. Intent on minimizing emissions and the match's carbon footprint, organizers are asking spectators to take public transport instead of driving to the stadium. Ticket holders will ride for free on National Express West Midlands buses. For those arriving on two wheels, extra cycle racks will be installed, plus charging for e-bikes and e-scooters. Lastly, the stadium guarantees 100% solar power sourced locally for all activities related to the match: not just match day but preparation and clean-up days, too.
