The Union of European Football Associations (Uefa) has updated its circular economy model to include apparel, equipment, event materials and energy and water usage.
The previous guidelines focused specifically on moving food and beverage to a circular model.
As only 9% of materials are being reduced or recycled, the guidelines will be used by national football associations, clubs and stakeholders to emphasises Uefa’s four Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle and recover.
Uefa director of social and environmental sustainable Michele Uva said: “Circular economy in football is a new and fascinating concept, and these UEFA guidelines offer a practical approach to embed it in our game.”
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Football stakeholders will be encouraged to explore apparel product life cycles and the relevant legislation governing their production, consumption and waste.
The guidelines scrutinise the environmental impact of event items such as signage, brand production, furniture and ICT equipment.
The guide will also support football stakeholders to implement measures to reduce energy and water consumption while transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Lastly, the ‘food & beverage’ section, introduced last year, delves into existing legislation and provides practical implementation data sheets.
Earlier this year, Uefa rolled out circular practices across its Men’s and Women’s Champions League finals in partnership with PepsiCo, as reported by Circular.
During the final, PepsiCo rolled out fully recyclable, zero plastic and biodegradable fibre cups.
The Women’s Champions Leage Final had returnable packaging for food and drinks.
“Our actions are focused on finding and disseminating solutions applicable to football matches taking place across national associations, leagues and clubs in Europe to play our part in tackling environmental challenge,” said Uva at the time.
