The FREE KICKS project, backed by the EU, helps football clubs across Europe to implement EMAS for greater sustainability. Discover how football is tackling its environmental impact and setting new standards for a greener future.

The FREE KICKS project, co-financed by the European Union, is supporting football organisations across Europe in their transition towards greater sustainability and circularity. By focusing on the implementation of EMAS and the development of environmental footprints at both product and organisational level, the project aims to embed robust environmental management practices within the football sector. Key football participants include FC Porto (Portugal), Real Betis Balompié (Spain), the Romanian Football Federation, Malmö FF (Sweden) and Racing Club (Argentina). The consortium is coordinated by Sant‘Anna School of Advanced Studies (Italy) and the Communication partner is Sports Positive (UK).

Football, as one of the world’s most popular sports, is associated with significant environmental impacts. These include greenhouse gas emissions from fan and team travel, stadium construction and operation, and substantial waste generation. Estimates suggest that global football activities contribute tens of millions of tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. Addressing these impacts is essential for the sector’s long-term sustainability.

EMAS provides a robust framework for systematically assessing, managing, and reducing environmental impacts. Through the FREE KICKS project, participating clubs and federations are guided through every stage of EMAS implementation—from initial environmental review to the development of an environmental statement and the introduction of targeted improvement measures.

In March 2024, FC Porto became the first sports club in Europe to achieve EMAS registration, followed by Real Betis in August 2025 and Romanian Football Federation in September 2025 Malmö FF has completed the validation of its environmental statements and are expected to finalise registration shortly.

A key element of the FREE KICKS project is the promotion of collaboration and knowledge exchange among football organisations. By involving staff and stakeholders in the EMAS process, clubs have identified innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The publication of environmental statements also enhances transparency, enabling clubs to communicate progress and challenges directly to fans, partners, and the wider public.

The achievements and experiences of the FREE KICKS project will be presented at the Sport Positive Summit in London on 8 October 2025. A dedicated session will highlight the journey of participating clubs and federations towards EMAS registration, share best practices, and discuss opportunities for further progress in environmental management within football.

The FREE KICKS project demonstrates how structured environmental management systems such as EMAS can be effectively integrated into the football sector. Through collaborative approaches, transparency, and continuous improvement, football organisations are strengthening their commitment to sustainability and setting new benchmarks for the industry.

Related links:

• FREE KICKS project website: https://www.free-kicks.eu/
• Sport Positive Summit website: https://www.sportpositivesummit.com/free-kicks/