By Marta Elena Casanova
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The year 2025 marks a turning point for Italian football in terms of sustainability. With the introduction of new UEFA and FIGC regulations on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, Serie A and B clubs are now required not just to adopt green practices, but to provide concrete data and reports on their impact. It’s a quiet but historic revolution, influencing clubs, fans, local communities, and the entire football industry.
The new rules: what changes in 2025
UEFA and FIGC directives mandate that clubs publish an annual ESG report. This must include environmental impact (energy consumption, emissions, waste management), community initiatives (inclusion, accessibility, education), and governance measures (gender equality, transparency, ethical conduct).
Failure to comply may result in financial sanctions, limitations on European licenses, or downgrades in sustainability rankings. This is no longer about greenwashing—clubs are now required to show real, verifiable action.
Top clubs take the lead: Inter, Milan, and Juventus
Italy’s biggest clubs are already taking concrete steps. Inter Milan launched “IMPACT”, a three-year plan to cut emissions by 40% by 2028, switch to renewable energy at all facilities, and promote urban reforestation projects in cooperation with the City of Milan.
AC Milan, through its “Fondazione Milan Green”, has initiated sustainability education programs in schools, installed solar panels at its training center, and introduced sustainable transport plans for home game fans.
Juventus has focused on the social side: in 2025, it launched a scholarship program for underprivileged youth athletes, digitalized all logistics to reduce waste, and now powers Allianz Stadium with 100% certified green energy.
Territory, economy, and fans: real impact
These ESG policies are more than regulatory compliance—they affect the local economy and the club-fan relationship. They’re generating new jobs (environmental managers, ESG consultants), boosting local businesses, and strengthening community ties.
More and more fans are demanding transparency and rewarding clubs that show genuine commitment to a greener future. The connection between a club and its city grows stronger through shared initiatives: recycling in stadiums, awareness events, and urban redevelopment.
Europe leads the way: best practices to follow
Italian clubs are also looking to European leaders. The Forest Green Rovers, in England, is the world’s first 100% vegan, net-zero emissions football club, recognized by FIFA as “the greenest club in the world”.
In Germany, Mainz 05 offsets all game-day emissions to make each match carbon neutral. In the Netherlands, Feyenoord recycles rainwater to irrigate training fields, cutting down water usage.
These examples prove that sustainability in football is not only feasible but also beneficial—enhancing reputation, attracting sponsors, and engaging younger generations.
A challenge that’s also an opportunity
For Italian clubs, this green revolution isn’t just a legal or moral obligation—it’s a strategic opportunity. Those who innovate and lead the change will gain a competitive edge both on and off the pitch. Because today, in football as in life, winning means taking care of the future.
By Marta Elena Casanova
