AFL’s sustainable journey
In a world-first,ˆ we partnered with the AFL to promote environmental change across Australia and to help reduce the impact of Australia’s favourite game on our environment.
Pictured right; Don Henry (Australian Conservation Foundation), Mick Malthouse (Collingwood FC), Karen Moses (Origin)
Since 2007, our relationship with the AFL and a number of its participating clubs has offset approximately 63,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
By the end of 2009, we expect that our AFL Green program will offset approximately 90,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions generated from AFL House, the NAB Cup, Toyota Premiership Season and Finals Series matches.
And, for the first time, a Green Round featured in the 2009 season, to further educate football fans about how they can ‘join in’ and reduce their impact on the environment at the game, and at home.
Eloise Bishop, AFL’s Community Engagement and Sustainability Manager, said, "Climate change is a hugely significant issue, and it could have a big impact on our game. The current drought is leading to unsafe dry grounds and potentially more injuries. On a local level it means some community clubs may not be able to play a full season."
Change comes together
Nine of the AFL clubs in 2009 worked with us to help the AFL reach its goal by reducing their own environmental impact through carbon offset programs. In 2009 The clubs included Adelaide, Carlton, Collingwood, Geelong, Kangaroos, Melbourne, Richmond, St Kilda and the Western Bulldogs.
Local footy supporters are doing their bit for our environment.
When switching to our Green for Footy energy plan, fans received a complimentary in-home assessment and a full size Sherrin® footy. We also contribute $27.50 (incl. GST) to help offset the greenhouse gas emissions of their favourite AFL club or club games. The Programme has finished for the 2009 calendar year.
Choosing a partner
Origin and the AFL had an existing long term relationship and Eloise said they felt that Origin was a credible and reliable company. Working closely with the AFL, we developed a comprehensive and unique carbon management strategy for the organisation which included renewable energy, energy efficiency and carbon offsets.
Commenting on the AFL’s partnership with us, acting General Manager Commercial Operations Andrew Dillon, said, "In 2006 we partnered with Origin to begin our sustainability journey. Together we have achieved some incredibly positive results for the environment and we look forward to further reducing our carbon footprint in years to come".
ˆ Program was a world first when it began in 2006