Is the Climate Crisis an Issue That Football Isn't Aware Of?

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Paul McInnis asks whether football is aware of the climate crisis. FIFA have pledged to go carbon neutral by 2040, UEFA are also on board. But if it's something that gets talked about by fans or on phone-ins, no, it's not. The global game is still powered by chartered private flights across continents.

It’s supposed to be the first ever carbon neutral World Cup. Organisers Fifa and host Qatar say they have implemented sustainability initiatives, taken measures to limit carbon output and will offset greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing credits. Fifa has admitted, however, that the tournament’s carbon footprint will bigger than any of its predecessors, and experts believe emissions have been underestimated, calling into question the claim of carbon neutrality. Madeleine Finlay speaks to sports reporter Paul MacInnes about the environmental burden of building stadiums, flying in players and fans from around the world and keeping the pitches green, and asks whether football is really ready to face up to its carbon footprint. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod