
It is easy to overlook the adverse effect that sports and recreational activities can have on the environment. A lot of the damage occurs behind the scenes. From sportswear manufacturing to facility construction and maintenance, it can all contribute significantly to the wider problems associated with waste and pollution.
However, with a few simple changes, sport can be made eco-friendly without losing out on any of the fun. Adopting some of the habits below will save money too.
Stay local
To keep car journeys to a minimum, it is best to use local sports facilities. If it is not possible to walk or cycle there, consider using public transport. For team-based activities, participants should consider carpooling or hiring a bus to travel to and from their venue. These are all effective ways to minimize air pollution.
Choose responsibly sourced sportswear
Many sportswear companies are now embracing organic, recycled, and Fairtrade certified materials as part of the manufacturing process. It is critical that consumers continue to seek out these sustainable products. It may require a bit more investment in the short-term, but the long-term environmental benefits are definitely worth it.
Taking proper care of sports clothing is also important as it reduces the need to replace items on a regular basis. Follow the washing instructions closely, and make minor repairs if necessary.
Re-use equipment
The manufacturing of sports equipment is generally harmful to the environment. However, smarter consumer choices can reduce the impact. For example, if equipment is only used occasionally, consider borrowing or renting it. If it is something that will be used on a regular basis, buying it second-hand could be an option.
Where possible, old equipment that is no longer needed should be donated or sold to stop it ending up in landfill.
Respect the outdoors
Trail runners and cyclists have a responsibility to look after the environment around them. Wildlife habitats should be left undisturbed and littering is an absolute no-no. The best thing to do is to stick to dedicated pathways.
Use refillable drinks bottles
481 billion single-use plastic bottles are discarded every year, with only 9% of those getting recycled. Using a refillable flask or bottle is a simple way to help tackle the global plastic waste issue while saving a bit of money at the same time.
Avoid processed snacks
The protein snack market is now worth a staggering
$79 billion globally. Unfortunately, this rise in popularity has led to the mass production of over-packaged goods – contributing further damage to the environment through unrecycled waste.
If possible, fuel up before exercising, or bring homemade snacks – they are generally a healthier choice and don’t come packaged in plastic.

Take shorter showers
Reducing hot water usage is another way to stay eco-friendly. The average shower uses around
four times less waterthan a bath – something to keep in mind when returning home after a strenuous workout.
Eco-wash your kit
Washing clothes on a shorter cycle at a lower temperature can make a big difference – after all, approximately 75% of a washing machine’s energy consumption results from heating the water. Air-drying is also recommended as it has no environmental impact.
Choose the right sport
Some sports are more eco-friendly than others. Activities that don’t require purpose-built facilities tend to be less damaging to the environment. These include, running, outdoor climbing, surfing, cycling, an kayaking.