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Football green cards: carbon neutrality initiatives

Football, as the most popular sport in the world, has a significant impact on the environment. From the organisation of major tournaments to the day-to-day running of clubs, football infrastructure and activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. However, in recent years, football organizations have been taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and achieve carbon neutrality.

Football's carbon footprint

It is estimated that the global football industry produces more than 30 million tons of CO₂ per year, which is comparable to the annual emissions of countries like Denmark. The main sources of these emissions are player and fan travel, energy consumption in stadiums and the production of sports equipment. For example, the expansion of the Big Ten American college football conference has led to a doubling of CO₂ emissions, with the 2024 season expected to generate more than 350,000 kilograms of emissions from team travel alone.

Examples of good practice

Forest Green Rovers, an English football club, is considered the greenest club in the world. The club uses renewable energy sources, has an organic lawn and offers exclusively vegan meals. In 2018, it became the first football club to receive carbon neutrality certification from the United Nations.

UEFA, the European football association, has committed to reducing emissions from its events by 50 % by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. To support this goal, it has developed a carbon footprint calculation tool for clubs that helps identify and reduce emissions in areas such as travel, facility operations and logistics.

Initiatives and measures

Many clubs and organizations are implementing measures to reduce their carbon footprint, such as:

  • Renewable energy sources: Installing solar panels at stadiums, such as West Ham United's London stadium, which plans to reduce emissions by more than 200 tonnes per year.

  • Sustainable transport: Supporting public transport for fans, as well as optimizing teams' travel plans to reduce emissions from air travel.

  • Green eating: Offering plant-based meals in stadiums and reducing food waste.

  • Use of technology: Implementation of intelligent systems for managing energy and water consumption in stadiums.

Challenges and the future

Despite progress, football faces challenges such as the need for investment in infrastructure, changing fan behavior, and ensuring transparency in measuring and reporting emissions. Success in achieving carbon neutrality will depend on the cooperation of all stakeholders, including clubs, players, fans and sponsors.

Football has a unique opportunity to be a leader in sustainability and inspire millions of people around the world to adopt environmentally friendly behaviour. Reducing the carbon footprint of this sport is not only an environmental imperative, but also an opportunity for positive change and innovation. Spring 

EU postpones proposal for 2040 climate targets after first quarter

The European Commission said on Friday it had postponed its plan to propose a new EU climate target for 2040 in the first quarter of this year, Reuters reports. The newswire continues: “Brussels said last month it would amend the EU’s climate law this quarter – a long-planned move that would set a 2040 target to keep countries on track between their 2030 emissions target and the bloc’s goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050. But the proposal has faced political opposition, with some member states and lawmakers previously suggesting they should cut emissions by 90 %. as the 2040 target.” Like most countries, the EU missed the February deadline to submit a 2035 climate plan to the UN, the article said – a plan that the commission said should be derived from the EU’s 2040 target. The EU “has pledged not to back down on its climate change commitments,” the report said. (Carbonbrief, Charlotte Van Campenhout and Kate Abnett, Reuters)

Decarbonizing Local Government: Preparing Municipalities for the Future – A Solutions Guide

Document entitled "Preparing Local Governments for the Future: A Guide to Decarbonization Solutions" emphasizes the key role that local governments can play in shaping a sustainable future transforming waste management, energy systems, heating and transport, which can lead to reductions in costs, smog, pollution and carbon emissions. However, the document warns that this requires proper planning, sufficient capacity and access to financing.

The European Union (EU) has set itself the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and to support this transformation, it has allocated significant financial resources to accelerate decarbonisation and support investments aimed at increasing energy efficiency, developing the circular economy and switching to renewable energy sources.

The document states that there is many ways to improve the situation in local government. For some, the most urgent need may be to transform district heating systems or replace individual household heating sources, while for others, the main focus may be to renovate and insulate buildings or improve local public transport. Other effective options include developing local energy production and reducing consumption. Nine municipalities in Central and Eastern Europe are already developing decarbonisation strategies to achieve meaningful change.

The document asks: "What can you change?" and refers to the Bankwatch report entitled "RePowering the regions: A comparative analysis of decarbonisation strategies in nine central and eastern European countries". It stresses that low-income households are usually the ones most in need of financing, as they often live in buildings with low energy efficiency and will be most affected by the ongoing transformation due to rising heat and energy prices. It points out that Home renovations can be extremely expensive and inaccessible to many households, even though support schemes are offered. It is therefore essential to meet their specific local needs by providing targeted and accessible support.

The document strongly recommends that local governments acknowledge and prioritize this issue in their investment plans. In addition, they must Decision-makers at all levels should make every effort to facilitate access to public funding for the most vulnerable groups in the population, by involving them in decision-making and simplifying application procedures.

Switching a district heating system from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources may seem challenging, but with through careful planning It is possible. Developing a comprehensive plan that includes all possible renewable resources requires data collection and recruitment of expertswho can assess the situation. The document refers to the Bankwatch comprehensive guide with useful and practical information on innovative and sustainable solutions for district heating systems.

The first step in addressing poverty in local governments is to implement high-quality analysis of the most important decarbonization needsAfter determining these priorities, it is necessary to develop next steps for several years ahead based on specific data and studies (both social and technical). Many of these documents can be prepared as part of the municipality's regular work on local strategies or action plans. More technical documentation can be developed using various forms of technical support.

The document presents various technical support tools:

  • JTP Groundwork: A support service within the European Commission's Just Transition Platform, providing a single point of access to expertise and assistance for EU regions funded by the Just Transition Fund. It targets regions where the transition to a sustainable economy is particularly challenging and provides capacity-building support for the implementation of their Territorial Just Transition Plans (TJTPs).
  • European Commission technical assistance: Includes exchange programs, databases and direct support in the development of frameworks and projects.
  • C4T Groundwork: A technical assistance tool offered within the Cohesion for Transitions (C4T) Community of Practice. It is designed to support EU Member States and regions, in particular local and managing authorities, in addressing specific challenges related to the implementation of Cohesion Policy investments in line with the European Green Deal.
  • JTPeers Experts database: Provides access to a network of experts on just transition topics relevant to coal and carbon-intensive regions across the EU. It connects regions in transition with experts who offer advice and support.
  • JTP Knowledge Hub: Provides practical case studies, tools and catalogues of good practices to support practitioners and stakeholders in advancing Europe's just transition to a climate-neutral economy.

The document also presents European Investment Bank (EIB) advisory programs:

  • TARGET (Technical Assistance for Regions Undergoing a Green Energy Transition): A technical tool developed by the European Commission and the EIB. It helps EU regions undergoing just transitions identify and plan clean energy and energy efficiency projects.
  • JASPERS (Joint Assistance to Support Projects in European Regions): Another advisory programme funded by the European Commission and the EIB. It provides beneficiaries with advice on strategies and projects, helping them to align their projects with EU standards and improve their chances of obtaining financing.
  • ELENA (European Local ENergy Assistance): Provides technical assistance grants to beneficiaries implementing projects in the areas of energy efficiency, distributed renewable energy, and urban transportation.

Next EU initiatives providing similar support:

  • European Urban Facility (EUCF): Supports municipalities, local authorities and other public entities across Europe in developing investment concepts to accelerate sustainable energy investments through a grant of €60,000.
  • City-to-City Exchanges: A European Urban Initiative (EUI) programme that brings together urban authorities to address specific implementation challenges related to sustainable urban development.

After comparing decarbonization scenarios, thoroughly evaluating preferred project options, and establishing a realistic implementation plan, the municipality is ready seek financingThe document provides tips for successfully navigating the funding application process:

  • Use technical assistance: If you have already received support from technical assistance programs, you should follow their advice.
  • Contact other municipalities: Learning from other municipalities that have implemented similar projects can provide valuable insights.
  • Contact relevant institutions: Regional development agencies and other public bodies can help identify suitable funding opportunities.
  • Consider pooling projects: If the most suitable funding options are focused on larger projects, consider partnering with neighboring municipalities.
  • Explore partnerships: Establishing partnerships with different types of actors can create additional funding opportunities.
  • Strengthen administrative capacity: Ensure that you have dedicated staff and experts within your administration.
  • Address co-financing requirements: Consider whether your project can be co-financed from other sources.

The document further presents the main EU funding opportunities:

  • EU cohesion policy funds: Includes the Cohesion Fund, the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Just Transition Fund.
  • Mechanism to support recovery and resilience.
  • Modernization Fund.
  • Social Climate Fund (SCF): It is expected to provide financing to support investments in the energy transition from 2026.
  • InvestEU Just Transition Scheme: Expands support beyond the Just Transition Fund.
  • Public Sector Loan Facility (PSLF): Combines a grant component from the EU budget with a loan component from the EIB, directly targeting local governments.
  • Just Transition Mechanism: Includes the Just Transition Fund and the second and third pillars (InvestEU Just Transition Scheme and PSLF).

In addition to EU funds, there are also national funding schemes in Central and Eastern European countries, such as:

  • Czech Republic: New green savings program.
  • Poland: Clean Air Program.
  • Slovakia: Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Slovak Republic.
  • Romania: Romania's Recovery and Resilience Plan, including voucher schemes.
  • Estonia: The Houses in Order program.
  • Hungary: Home renovation program.
  • Bulgaria: Bulgaria's Recovery and Resilience Plan and Regional Development Programme.

The document includes web addresses for further information: just-transition.info and bankwatch.org. The document also includes information on the funding of the project and responsibility for the views expressed. Spring


Glossary of key terms

  • Decarbonization: The process of reducing carbon dioxide (and other greenhouse gas) emissions with the aim of achieving a low-carbon or carbon-neutral economy.
  • Energy efficiency: The ability to use less energy to provide the same or better performance or service.
  • Renewable energy sources: Energy sources that are naturally renewable on a human timescale, such as solar energy, wind energy, geothermal energy, hydropower, and biomass.
  • Circular economy: An economic system that aims to minimize waste and maximize resource use by keeping products and materials in circulation for as long as possible.
  • Low-income households: Households with income below a certain threshold, which are often more vulnerable to economic shocks and changes in energy prices.
  • Just Transition Fund (JTF): A European Union financial instrument aimed at supporting regions and communities most affected by the transition to a climate-neutral economy.
  • Territorial Just Transition Plan (TJTP): A strategic document developed by regions to identify challenges and priorities related to the transition to a low-carbon economy and plan the use of funds from the Just Transition Fund.
  • Technical assistance: Expert advice, knowledge and support provided to assist in the preparation, implementation and management of projects and policies.
  • EU cohesion policy: A set of European Union policies aimed at reducing economic, social and territorial disparities between EU regions. Its main financial instruments are the Cohesion Fund, the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund.
  • Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF): A temporary European Union instrument to support economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic and to strengthen the resilience of Member States.

How to achieve carbon neutrality: A practical guide for individuals in Slovakia

In a time of growing awareness of climate change, more and more individuals are interested in how they can contribute to reducing their carbon footprint. Achieving carbon neutrality is possible through a combination of reducing your own emissions and offsetting those that cannot be completely eliminated. The following guide will provide you with specific steps and values that you can apply in Slovakia to get closer to this goal.

1. Measure your carbon footprint

The first step to achieving carbon neutrality is to figure out how much CO₂ (and other greenhouse gases) you generate. You can use online calculators to do this, which take into account your activities in transportation, energy consumption, diet and more.

2. Reduce your emissions

Energy efficiency at home

Invest in insulation, replacing old windows, energy-efficient appliances, and LED lighting. These measures can significantly reduce your energy consumption and thus emissions.

Renewable energy sources

If possible, switch to a green energy supplier or install solar panels. Renewable energy sources are a key element for a sustainable future.

transportation

Minimize your car use – use public transport, cycle or walk instead. Alternatively, consider an electric car, which has lower emissions compared to traditional vehicles.

Eating habits

Reduce your meat consumption, especially beef and lamb, and focus on a more plant-based diet. Also minimize food waste, which helps reduce your overall carbon footprint.

3. Offset remaining emissions

Credit systems

Invest in tree planting projects or renewable energy projects that are certified with carbon offsets. These projects help offset the emissions you cannot eliminate.

Support for local initiatives

Get involved in community projects that reduce your carbon footprint, such as tree planting or local energy projects. This not only contributes to your own carbon neutrality, but also to the collective effort.

4. Sustainable lifestyle

Reducing consumption

Think about your purchases, prefer sustainable and local products. Reducing consumption contributes to less waste and lower emissions.

Recycling and waste minimization

Sort your waste, buy products with less packaging and encourage recycling. Minimizing waste is an important step towards a sustainable lifestyle.

5. Education and engagement

Education

Stay up-to-date on climate action and support discussions on sustainable development. Awareness is key to effective action.

Advocacy

Support public policies and initiatives that support the transition to a sustainable economy and energy efficiency. Your engagement can influence broader social and political change.

Specific values for an individual in Slovakia

For an individual in Slovakia, it is recommended to aim to reduce their annual carbon footprint to around 2 tons of CO₂e annually. For better understanding:

Average carbon footprint of the population of Slovakia is approximately 5.66 to 8 tons of CO₂e annually, with some sources citing a value of around 6.5 tons of CO₂e per person (data from climate and Eurostat).

To achieve carbon neutrality, your goal should be:

Emission reduction approximately 70–80 % – from the original 6.5 tons to approximately 1.2 to 2 tons of CO₂e per year.

Specific steps:

Transportation: If a car contributes about 1.5 to 2 tons of CO₂e,  switching to public transport, cycling or shared rides can reduce this value by 50 % (i.e. save approximately 0.75 to 1 tonne CO₂e).

Housing: Energy efficiency (insulation, LED lighting, switching to renewable energy) can reduce emissions from household appliances by 0.5 to 1 ton CO₂e annually.

Diet: Reducing meat consumption, especially beef, and increasing the proportion of plant-based diets can reduce the carbon footprint by 0.5 to 1 ton CO₂e annually.

Consumption and lifestyle: Small changes in purchases and reducing waste (recycling, waste reduction) can contribute further 0.2 to 0.5 tons of CO₂e annually.

By combining these measures, you could reduce your carbon footprint from the average 6.5 tons for approximately 1.2 to 2 tons of CO₂e per year, which is close to carbon neutrality (as part of compensation, for example by planting trees or investing in carbon offsets).

Achieving carbon neutrality is a realistic goal that you can achieve through a combination of reducing your emissions and offsetting those that cannot be eliminated. By implementing concrete steps and values, you contribute not only to your personal goal, but also to the broader effort to mitigate climate change.

Spring

Japan's 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target

Japan has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The country has committed to reducing emissions by 46 % by fiscal year 2030 compared to fiscal year 2013 levels, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This commitment includes broad coverage of sectors and gases and uses IPCC methodologies to estimate emissions. The country is focused on decarbonizing the economy and society and promoting innovation in various sectors. In addition, Japan plans to use mechanisms such as the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) to achieve international emission reductions. Japan sees its contributions as fair and ambitious given its national circumstances. The aim is also to contribute to the goals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. Spring

Sustainable urban mobility in the EU: the transition to zero emissions

Document A better mobility starts in cities by Eurocities looks at urban mobility policy in the EU and its objectives for 2030 and beyond in the context of the European Green Deal. It highlights the need to transition to zero-emission mobility in cities, support for public transport, walking and cyclingThe document also proposes concrete recommendations for EU institutions to support these goals. Key points include:

  • Supporting multimodal and sustainable mobility: The document emphasizes the need to create a convenient and reliable mobility system that would encourage people to rethink their travel habits and switch to public transport, walking and cycling.
  • Infrastructure investments: The document calls for increased EU and national support for investments in urban and long-distance transport infrastructure, based on new indicators for sustainable urban mobility. It is necessary to ensure greater budgetary allocations, clear rules for urban areas and greater involvement of cities in decision-making.
  • The role of cities in transport plans: The document emphasizes that cities should have a greater role in deciding on major investment plans that affect their territory.
  • Funding: It is proposed to establish a new CEF-Transport programme with an increased budget for urban areas. Cross-subsidies and national tax systems to support green transport need to be explored.
  • Rail transport support: The document supports the EU's ambition to double the volume of high-speed rail transport by 2030 and to revive night trains and freight connections in Europe.
  • Prioritizing sustainable modes of transport: Public transport requires significant investment to renew and expand networks. The document also proposes support for active and shared mobility.
  • Transition to zero-emission mobility: The document supports the 2035 target for the phase-out of fossil fuel vehicles. It also needs to address vehicle categories where decarbonisation is lagging behind. It also needs to regulate vehicle energy efficiency and ensure that imported vehicles comply with EU legislation.
  • Infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles: It is necessary to invest in adapting local infrastructure to introduce zero-emission vehicles.
  • Addressing the consequences of combustion engine vehicles: The document proposes to address pollution from internal combustion engine vehicles through low- and zero-emission zones and other vehicle access regulations.
  • Road safety: The document proposes a review of the EU framework for road safety and supports the use of intelligent assistance technologies.
  • Climate resistance: The document emphasizes the need to assess and anticipate the impact of climate change on urban mobility and infrastructure.
  • Inclusive mobility: The document also addresses ensuring equal access to employment and services regardless of gender, reduced mobility, ethnic origin or social conditions. It also addresses transport poverty.
  • Innovations in urban mobility: It is necessary to support knowledge exchange and build the capacity of cities in the field of innovation in mobility.
  • Data sharing: The document highlights the need to improve the availability and quality of mobility data held by private companies for local authorities.

Overall document presents a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in urban mobility and offers concrete steps that the EU and its Member States should take to achieve their goals in the areas of sustainability, safety and inclusion in transport. JaroR 

Carbon-neutral Slovakia by 2050

This one report deals with updating the analysis of scenarios for the development of greenhouse gas emissions in Slovakia with the aim of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050The “2050 Pathways Explorer” model is used, which allows modeling different emission trajectories in individual sectors national economy. The model takes into account energy conversion and consumption, the associated greenhouse gas emissions, as well as their removals.

Goals and starting points:

  • The EU and Slovakia aim to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, which means reducing greenhouse gas production and offsetting remaining emissions.
  • This target is binding within the framework of The European Climate Law of 2021.
  • The European Green Deal and a package of measures "Fit for 55" are key to reducing emissions by 2030.
  • The Slovak Republic has an Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), which was updated in 2023.

Model used:

  • Model "2050 Pathways Explorer" is a complex model of energy flows in individual sectors.
  • The model was inspired by EUCalc, GlobalCalc and other models computational models.
  • Allows testing of different measures, both technological and behavioral.
  • It is available online and allows the preparation of new scenarios.
  • Model does not include economic analysis.
  • It uses data from the Eurostat and IDEES databases, adjusted based on national statistics.
  • The model was updated in 2023, with new data and changes in sectors.

Scenarios:

  • WEM approx. – scenario with existing measures.
  • WAM approx. – scenario with additional measures.
  • Zero Emission scenario (ZEM) – a carbon-free scenario that aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
  • EST Behavior – a scenario based on conscious citizen behavior.
  • EST Policy – a scenario based on compliance with government measures and policies.
  • Ambitious Scenario (AS) – a scenario set to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.
  • EARTH 2024 – a scenario combining environmentally conscious behavior and government measures.

Key findings and measures under the ZEM 2024 scenario:

  • Total emissions could fall to -0.42 MtCO2e thanks to changes in behavior and an increased share of renewables.
  • Final energy consumption should decrease by 38% compared to 2005 and by 44% compared to 2021.
  • Electricity will be the most important energy carrier in 2050.

Sectoral changes:

  • Buildings:
    • Emissions should fall to 0.65 MtCO2e by 2050.
    • Insulation, renovations, switching to renewable energy, and more efficient district heating systems are key.
    • Reducing energy demand for heating by 70% compared to 2021 and for hot water by 50%.
    • Electrification of heating, support for heat pumps and solar panels.
    • High rate of building renovation to the NZEB/ZEB standard.
  • Transportation:
    • Emissions should fall to 0.11 MtCO2e by 2050.
    • Support for active transport, mass transit and emission-free transport.
    • Transition to electric, biofuels and synthetic fuels.
    • Ending sales of new cars with combustion engines by 2035 (except synthetic fuels).
    • Increasing the share of zero-emission vehicles and biofuels.
    • Improving energy efficiency, implementing CO2 standards for vehicles.
  • Agriculture, forestry and other land use (AFOLU):
    • Emissions should fall to 1.25 MtCO2e.
    • Reducing meat consumption, food waste and the use of artificial fertilizers.
    • Afforestation, forest restoration and promotion of sustainable practices.
    • Emission capture could reach up to 5.9 MtCO2e in 2050.
    • Using bioenergy with BECCS technology.
  • Industry:
    • Emissions should fall to 3.16 MtCO2e.
    • Improving energy efficiency and implementing circular economy principles.
    • Introduction of green hydrogen in the steel industry and geopolymers in the cement industry.
    • CCUS and DAC technologies for carbon capture and storage.
    • Support for energy-efficient and emission-friendly technologies.
  • Energy:
    • Emissions could fall to -0.211 MtCO2e.
    • Increasing the capacity of renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal) and nuclear energy.
    • End of operation of coal-fired power plants.
    • The increase in electricity demand (by 80%) will be offset by an increase in RES and nuclear power.
    • The growing importance of energy communities and installation of small sources.

Conclusion and recommendations:

  • The report highlights the need for ambitious measures and cooperation all stakeholders.
  • It is necessary increase efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, involve government, businesses and households.
  • It is necessary comprehensive analysis of socio-economic consequences transition to a low-carbon economy.

Methodology:

  • The “2050 Pathways Explorer” model is a comprehensive model that links demand for energy, materials, land and food to emissions.
  • The model uses data from Eurostat and IDEES.
  • It is based on levers that allow testing of different scenarios.
  • The model is alive and constantly evolving.

This report provides a detailed look at Slovakia's paths to carbon neutrality, with an emphasis on changes in behavior, energy, transport, industry, and agriculture. Spring

Glossary of Key Terms

  • Carbon neutrality: A state where total greenhouse gas emissions are balanced by their capture, thereby eliminating the impact on climate change.
  • Greenhouse gases: Gases in the atmosphere that trap heat and contribute to global warming, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O).
  • IPCC: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the UN scientific body assessing the state of climate change.
  • Paris Agreement: An international agreement on climate change that aims to limit the rise in global temperatures.
  • European Green Deal: The European Union's strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
  • Fit for 55: A package of EU measures to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 % by 2030 compared to 1990.
  • NECP (Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan): A strategic document that sets out Slovakia's energy and climate goals until 2030.
  • NUS (Low Carbon Development Strategy of the Slovak Republic): Slovakia's Strategy for Achieving Low-Carbon Development by 2030 with a View to 2050.
  • RES (Renewable Energy Sources): Energy sources that are naturally renewable, such as solar energy, wind energy, geothermal energy and biomass energy.
  • BECCS (Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage): Biomass energy production technology with carbon capture and storage.
  • CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage): Technology for capturing and storing carbon, thereby reducing its concentration in the atmosphere.
  • AFOLU: Agriculture, forestry and other land use sector.
  • NZEB: Nearly zero energy buildings.
  • ZEB: Zero emission buildings.
  • District heating: Central heat supply.
  • WEM: Scenario with existing measures.
  • WAM: Scenario with additional measures.
  • EARTH: Carbon-free scenario (zero emission measures).
  • MtCO2e: One million tons of CO2 equivalent.
  • "Levers": Variables in the "2050 Pathways Explorer" model that set the main factors affecting energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
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