As the UK’s most widely watched sport, football is frequently considered a cornerstone of British history and culture. International sporting events, such as the UEFA European Championships (the Euros), can help to drive national unity and build community.

Yet, amongst the excitement, one crucial consequence often overlooked is the significant increase in residual waste produced. These events, while unifying, create an abundance of excess waste that demands appropriate management – and the figures are dramatic.

To provide some context, the 2016 Rio Olympics generated around 17,000 tonnes of waste, according to the Climate Impacts Tracker. Closer to home, each European football match[1], on average, produces approximately 0.8kg of rubbish per spectator, translating to a staggering 4.2 tonnes per match. These figures primarily reflect visible waste streams but don’t always encompass broader impacts from supply chains and consumer behaviour.

Drivers of the waste

The responsibility for managing this surge in waste extends far beyond the stadium gates, requiring a collaborative effort from various stakeholders. But what are the main drivers of waste generation at these events?

Sporting event venues, such as stadiums and arenas, are ground zero for waste generation. From food waste to single-use plastic packaging, managing diverse waste streams efficiently is paramount for these sites.

Hospitality venues like pubs, bars, and restaurants showing the games also experience massive upticks in footfall, leading to increased food waste, packaging, and single-use items. Meanwhile, consumers and households celebrating at home or on the go contribute significantly through discarded food and drink packaging, and event-related merchandise.

Additionally, the surge in demand for food and beverages during major events means increased packaging waste from product deliveries and point-of-sale consumption for retailers and grocery providers.

Tackling the surge

Addressing these waste challenges requires a proactive approach. At Willshee’s, we champion several key strategies to help sporting events and associated businesses minimise their environmental footprint.

For these events, implementing effective waste segregation techniques is vital; this means providing clear, well-labelled, and easily accessible recycling bins for different waste streams such as plastics, paper, food waste, and glass within venues.

As ever, education can play a crucial role in driving change and reducing unnecessary waste. Awareness campaigns for both staff and spectators are essential to ensure correct disposal, maximising recycling rates and minimising contamination.

Event organisers should also consider collaboration with food and beverage vendors. These partnerships can help to promote reusable containers, discourage single-use plastics, and opt for recyclable or compostable materials.

Finally, adopting data-driven decisions through monitoring waste volumes and composition can provide invaluable insights, allowing for continuous improvement and more targeted reduction strategies in future events.

What have we learned?

The Euros and other major sporting events are brilliant for national spirit, but let’s make sure we’re celebrating in an environmentally sustainable way. Effective waste management isn’t just about compliance. It’s about safeguarding our communities and our planet for future generations. Together, we can champion sporting excellence without compromising our environment.

At Willshee’s, we proudly support the waste management of golf, football and rugby events throughout the year. If you’re looking for waste management support on sporting or other community events, please get in touch via sales@willshees.co.uk

[1] https://www.sustainability-beat.co.uk/2024/06/14/waste-euro-football/#:~:text=Sign%20up%20here%20to%20get,consumption%20and%20emissions%20from%20travel.

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