Edgbaston Stadium will place sustainability centre stage during Day Three of the England v Pakistan Test Match on Friday 11 September as it hosts its annual Go Green Game, encouraging fans, partners and the wider cricket community to play their part in creating a greener future for the sport. This year's campaign is themed Playing for the Future, highlighting the growing impact climate change is having on cricket around the world and the importance of collective action to protect the game for future generations. From extreme weather and rising temperatures to disrupted playing schedules and changing conditions, climate change poses increasing challenges for sport. Through the Go Green Game, Edgbaston will shine a spotlight on the practical steps already being taken across the venue to reduce its environmental impact and support a more sustainable future. Throughout the day, supporters will be able to discover a range of sustainability initiatives operating at Edgbaston, including:
100% renewable electricity powering the stadium
Smart energy management through Lightwave technology
New food waste recycling facilities across the venue
Reusable e-cups helping reduce plastic waste
Free water refill stations for spectators bringing reusable bottles
Electric grounds maintenance equipment, including Dennis Mowers
Sustainable food and drink options available throughout the stadium
Biodiversity projects supporting local wildlife and green spaces
Enhanced public transport options to encourage greener travel
Edgbaston’s long-running partnership with National Express West Midlands will continue for the Test Match against Pakistan, whereby supporters can take advantage of free travel on the 501 shuttle bus between Birmingham New Street station and Edgbaston Stadium. As part of the campaign, Edgbaston is also promoting sustainable travel with a special offer from Transport for West Midlands, allowing supporters to claim a free one-week bus pass during Test Match week. Registration for the offer is available now and will be open until 30 August, with participants also receiving 25% off bus travel during the following week. Please click here to register. Fans attending the match will be encouraged to make simple changes that collectively make a significant difference, from travelling sustainably and recycling waste correctly to using refill stations and choosing sustainable food and drink options. Lydia Carrington, Edgbaston’s Head of Sustainability, said: "Cricket has always been a sport deeply connected to the natural environment, and the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible across the game. "Our Go Green Game is an opportunity to raise awareness of these challenges while demonstrating the meaningful actions being taken at Edgbaston to reduce our environmental impact. From renewable energy and waste reduction initiatives to sustainable travel and biodiversity projects, we're committed to playing our part in protecting the future of cricket. "We hope supporters enjoy learning more about the initiatives in place and feel inspired to make their own sustainable choices, both on matchday and beyond."
Visitors will be able to engage with a range of sustainability-themed activities, activations and information points around the stadium throughout the day, helping to demonstrate how sport can be a positive force for environmental change.
The Go Green Game forms part of Edgbaston's wider commitment to sustainability and responsible venue management, supporting ongoing efforts to reduce emissions, minimise waste and create a lasting positive impact for the region.