RFEF shows a green identity and sustainable policies
The commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UEFA Sustainable Strategy are key to actions such as the elimination of single-use plastic, the installation of recycling machines and the implementation of healthy habits.
The Spanish Football Federation wanted to show its real commitment to sustainability with the application of policies and actions that are developed at the Ciudad del Fútbol and will be implemented during matches, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UEFA's Sustainability Strategy.
In this regard, those different actions have already a green mark with the RFEF logo resembling a ball made up of curved leaves related to the environment. This distinctive mark accompanies the proposals that are recognised by the slogan "Sustainable RFEF".
Among them, the progressive elimination of single-use plastic has been implemented, changing the thousands of water bottles that were consumed daily in the federation's facilities for fountains where it is possible to refill the sustainable bottle that each employee has received with their personalised name.
Likewise, in collaboration with Ecoembes, an intelligent recycling machine has been installed, which allows recycled plastic to be converted into points that will be donated to social or environmental projects. A recycling centre has also been set up in Ciudad del Fútbol, along with hundreds of containers or bins for separating different types of waste.
In addition, healthy habits policies have been established, such as a fitness programme open to employees, healthy menus and daily fruit available to workers.
In terms of energy efficiency, aerators have been purchased to reduce water consumption by up to 70%, an action that is complemented by solar panels (110) that allow matches to be lit with renewable energy, as well as 20 electric vehicle-recharging points, both actions carried out in collaboration with Iberdrola.
This sustainable commitment is enhanced with training initiatives in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, which are currently given to referees and technical staff and will be extended to all those working in the federation's facilities.
Over the upcoming months, it is planned to activate a system to contain the rubber balls from the artificial turf pitches; work to install a grass recycling system to obtain organic fertiliser; and apply sustainable policies to the matches organised by the Federation, where a first measurement of the carbon footprint has already been carried out (Copa del Rey final).
This federative commitment will be completed with the presentation of the Sustainability Strategy, which is currently being drawn up, for the next five years. It is a commitment that will be approved by the RFEF's highest bodies. At the same time, it will continue to work hand in hand with the Spanish Olympic Committee (COE) through the agreements reached between both entities, as well as with the UEFA Sustainability team.