The UEFA EURO 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance Report presents the results of a €29.6 million investment in sustainability and a data-driven approach.
UEFA EURO 2024 in Germany went beyond incredible play and unforgettable moments on the pitch. It celebrated football's impact on society, setting new records and sparking change that extends far beyond the pitch.
Beyond the excitement of the matches and the lively atmosphere in stadiums and fan areas, UEFA decided to redefine the organization of sustainable events - a commitment reflected in the publication of the environmental framework, social and governance (ESG) of UEFA EURO 2024, which will start in Frankfurt on November 1 at 11:00 CET.
Ambition, action, and responsibility
With a mission based on ambition, action, and responsibility, the tournament aims to leave a lasting legacy that will extend far beyond the field. A strategic investment of €29.6 million has enabled UEFA to implement more than 120 sustainability actions, achieving 95% of its pre-tournament targets.
Through targeted, data-driven initiatives, the tournament has significantly reduced its environmental impact, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and has shown that football can lead by example.
Reduction of carbon emissions
One of the main achievements of the tournament was the reduction of the carbon footprint. By offering safe, reliable, and enjoyable public and active transport options, EURO 2024 encouraged fans to travel sustainably. In addition, the group stage matches were concentrated in regional hubs, minimizing air travel by 75% compared to EURO 2016.
Overall, these measures have led to a 21% reduction in carbon emissions compared to initial projections. The tournament also adopted a circular economy model through its 4R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover), which resulted in a 36% reduction in waste compared to EURO 2016.
In addition, the creation of a €7 million climate fund has supported 272 sustainable infrastructure projects for amateur clubs and regional associations across Germany, leaving a lasting environmental legacy.
Nancy Faeser, German Federal Minister of the Interior and Community, said: “But hosting UEFA EURO 2024 was a very special occasion for our country. Germany was presented as a good host country and we had the opportunity to show what our country means: respect, diversity, and democratic values.
The tournament was run smoothly and safely. These four weeks have brought us closer as a company in the heart of Europe. Together we managed to achieve our goal of organizing a sustainable tournament at all levels and set the standards for future major sporting events in Germany - social, environmental, and economic.
Create lasting positive change
UEFA also prioritizes social impact and respect for human rights. Improved stadium services allow more than 10,000 disabled fans to feel the energy of live matches. Rapid response initiatives have helped combat abuse and discrimination in real-time, both online and in person on sites. Match observers monitored all high-risk matches, while UEFA worked with Meta, X, and TikTok to monitor social media accounts for abuse. In total, 46 targeted actions protect the rights, safety, and dignity of all supporters.
players and staff.
Accessibility and inclusiveness were key to making the tour accessible to all. UEFA has made 387,000 tickets available for just €30, allowing fans from all walks of life to attend. In addition, all 10 venues offer healthy food and drinks to promote the well-being of spectators.
Good governance was at the heart of EURO 2024, with a focus on education, transparency, and accountability. Through initiatives such as the #Football and 4R campaigns, UEFA has engaged 5.4 billion viewers worldwide, demonstrating how sustainability and football can go hand in hand to create lasting positive change.
The same ESG framework applies to UEFA Women's EURO 2025 in Switzerland, as well as all UEFA competition finals.
