The Rise of Green Sponsorships: A Union Between Sport and Sustainability

May 26, 2023

In a world that is becoming increasingly aware of the urgent need to act against climate change, we are witnessing a surprising yet exciting intersection between the environmental and sports sectors.
Green sponsorships, where eco-friendly companies support athletes and teams committed to the fight against climate change, are gaining ground and deserve our attention.

A global movement is leading the sports industry to become greener and more sustainable. From football fields powered by renewable energy to plastic-free sporting events, we are seeing a shift towards sustainability. But there’s more: sustainable companies are also taking their place on the sports stage, supporting athletes and teams that share their values.

Patagonia Provisions and Ramón Navarro

One example is the partnership between the sustainable beverage company Patagonia Provisions and professional surfer Ramón Navarro. 

Patagonia Provisions is committed to creating organic, environmentally friendly, and sustainable food products.

Navarro, known as the “ocean ambassador”, is an environmental activist committed to ocean conservation. Together, they are promoting sustainability through sport.

Forest Green Rovers

Another example involves football, one of the world’s most beloved sports.

Forest Green Rovers, an English football team, has earned a reputation as the “greenest football team in the world”. The entire club operates on ecological principles, from uniforms made from recycled materials to the renewable energy used to power the stadium.

The team’s initiatives have attracted sponsorships from sustainable companies like Ecotricity, a renewable energy company, which has supported their commitment to sustainability.

Adidas

Adidas, known for its innovation in sports apparel, has launched a line of products called Primeblue, made with plastic recovered from oceans in collaboration with Parley for the Oceans.

This initiative has led to the sponsorship of teams and athletes committed to promoting sustainability, including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, who have worn uniforms made with Primeblue products.

Formula E and Sponsorships

Another example comes from Formula E, a series of fully electric car races, which has attracted considerable interest from eco-friendly sponsors.

Electric car manufacturer DS Automobiles has sponsored the Techeetah team, demonstrating its commitment to a sustainable future for motor racing.

Red Bull Sailing Team‘s Sponsorships

Finally, the Red Bull Sailing Team, engaged in one of the world’s most prestigious sailing competitions, the Extreme Sailing Series, has received support from the renewable energy company SailGP.

With this sponsorship, both are committed to promoting sustainability and the use of renewable energy within sailing competitions.

These examples show how green sponsorships can unite two seemingly different worlds – sport and ecology – into a powerful synergy.

Not only do these sponsorships promote sustainability, but they also raise awareness and attention to environmental issues among sports fans.

This trend represents huge potential for green companies and the sports community. While companies can reach a broader audience and engage consumers in a meaningful way, athletes and teams can benefit from the support of sponsors who respect their ecological values.

In conclusion, green sponsorships represent a winning model for the sports industry and the environment. As the sports industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more and more of these green partnerships in the near future.