16 April 2023 , 21:30
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In 2021, 7.7 billion acres of forest were lost to fires, while 13 species of bees have been lost in the UK since 1990.
These bold statements are more commonly found on placards than football shirts.
But thanks to a new project to redesign football kits and badges, they highlight how clubs will be affected by climate change in the future.
Kyle Harman-Turner, from Climate Clubs says, “Global warming is our biggest challenge and nothing rallies people like football.”
The 37-year-old has set up the non-profit organisation to combine his two passions – football and sustainability – after becoming a father.
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The bee population in the UK is declining (Getty Images/iStockphoto)He says he believes football clubs could help lead the way in making fans aware of the issues around climate change, and get them involved in innovative ways.
Ipswich Town, Norwich City and Chelsea are the first to have their kits redesigned to show how rising water levels could affect grounds, with more to follow. Climate Clubs has also altered Nottingham Forest’s badge to shine a spotlight on forest fires, while Brentford’s crest has been changed to highlight declining bee populations in the UK.
Flags featuring the repurposed club logos are on sale with profits going to organisations tackling climate change.
At present, the new shirts are not on general sale but Kyle says he looks forward to the day when all clubs have a home, away and a cause kit.
He said: “Look at the reach Marcus Rashford has. It is really possible to engage the football community and make a difference.
“People think climate change is this faraway thing and you have these visions in your mind of polar bears on ice caps, but actually it’s something that’s very close to home.
“We have this big belief that football clubs are more influential than governments. We really believe that you can change culture, and the way people behave and think through football.”
- For more information go to climateclubs.co.uk.