New fund to create 'world's greenest sports industry'

Sport England has unveiled a new initiative under its Every Move sustainability strategy, allocating £45 million toward making the English sports sector the most sustainable globally.

Programme Highlights

• All 130 system partners, including national governing bodies, must launch sustainability plans by 2027 or risk losing funding.
• End-of-life artificial turf recycling is now mandatory for all pitches funded after June 2024.
• Funding supports facility restoration, decarbonisation, and green infrastructure projects.

With 60% of adults and children reporting activity disruption due to extreme weather, this fund directly tackles climate risks to participation.

Why It Is Important

Sport England distributes over £300 million annually to promote active and inclusive sport. This investment ties sustainability to funding and supports the goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2040.

Opportunity for VCSE Organisations

• Recycling and renewing pitches
• Retrofit or build energy-efficient club facilities
• Install flood resilience systems
• Develop green spaces or biodiversity projects

Next Steps

1. Explore Every Move guidance on the Sport England website
2. Plan projects in recycling, energy, water, and biodiversity
3. Prepare to apply via the Movement Fund and related funds
4. Watch for upcoming environmental funding windows from Sport England

For full details, please visit the Sport England website:
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