Champion of the Year Award: Dave Farebrother 

Dave Farebrother, former Chairman of Sutton United Football Club (SUFC) and now its Sustainability Lead, has been awarded the Champion of the Year Award at the BASIS Awards for his outstanding contribution to environmental sustainability in football. Over the past two years, Dave has spearheaded a series of transformative initiatives at SUFC, introducing sustainability policies, launching certifications, and driving impactful carbon reduction efforts. His leadership has not only significantly reduced the club’s environmental impact but also positioned SUFC as a pioneer in football sustainability.

Tackling Sustainability: From CSR to Carbon Reduction

Since stepping into the role of Sustainability Lead, Dave has led a comprehensive programme to understand and mitigate SUFC’s environmental impact. He implemented various strategies across key areas such as energy use, travel, and procurement, aligning the club’s operations with recognised sustainability standards. Some of his key achievements include:

• CSR Report: Dave introduced SUFC’s first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report while serving as Chairman and has since ensured its publication is an annual practice. This report provides full disclosure of the club’s environmental impact, including Scope 1, 2, and 3 carbon emissions.
• Certifications: Under Dave’s leadership, SUFC achieved certifications in two notable environmental schemes:
  • Green Mark certification from the London Borough of Sutton, which rewarded the club with a reduction in business rates.
  • Green Clubs certification under the Football League’s sustainability programme, making SUFC only the third club to receive this recognition.

Sustainable Impact

Over the course of two years, Dave has implemented numerous sustainability initiatives that have had a profound impact on the club’s environmental performance:

1. Low Carbon Energy: Dave facilitated a switch to a low carbon electricity tariff, significantly reducing the club’s reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing its carbon footprint.
2. Sustainable Travel and Procurement: SUFC adopted a sustainable travel policy, which encourages lower-emission travel methods for players and staff. This was complemented by a sustainable procurement policy that prioritises eco-friendly products and services.
3. Electric Vehicles (EVs): Dave spearheaded the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging points and facilitated the transition of the club’s diesel kit van to a hybrid, with plans to go fully electric. Additionally, the team manager now drives an EV, demonstrating SUFC’s commitment to clean energy transportation.
4. Vape Recycling and E-Bike Hub: Dave established SUFC as a hub for Human Forest E-Bikes, promoting greener transportation options for fans and staff. He also set up vape recycling points in the club’s car park to help tackle electronic waste.
5. Volunteer Recruitment: Under Dave’s guidance, the sustainability team expanded with the recruitment of additional volunteers, ensuring long-term support for ongoing environmental initiatives.
6. Training and Awareness: Dave delivered Climate Fresk training to key SUFC staff, including the CEO and Head of Foundation, as well as local education partners. This innovative training tool has raised awareness and fostered a sustainability mindset across the club.
7. Environmental and Energy Management Systems: Dave implemented an Environmental Management System aligned with ISO:14001 standards, alongside an Energy Management System aligned with ISO:50001. These systems provide a robust framework for ongoing sustainability improvements, with monthly monitoring and reporting to the Board.
8. Quarterly Sustainability Newsletter: To engage staff and fans, Dave established a quarterly newsletter focused on sustainability, which is circulated internally and made available to fans via the club’s website. This ongoing communication has helped build a culture of environmental awareness throughout the club.

Carbon Reduction Milestones

Through targeted efforts, Dave has achieved impressive reductions in SUFC’s carbon emissions:

• Scope 1 (direct emissions): A 31.3% reduction in 2022/23, far exceeding the club’s 5% annual target.
• Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy): A 12.5% reduction, attributed to the switch to a low carbon tariff.
• Scope 3 (other indirect emissions): A 27% reduction in team travel emissions, equivalent to a reduction of 7.16 tonnes in 2022/23. Travel remains one of the largest areas of Scope 3 emissions for the club, but this significant reduction reflects SUFC’s dedication to addressing even the most complex environmental challenges.

Future Projects

Dave has ambitious plans for SUFC’s continued sustainability journey. In Q3 of 2024, the club will launch several green initiatives, including:

• A bug hotel competition with local schools, engaging the community in biodiversity efforts.
• The development of a wildflower garden on the club grounds to attract pollinators.
• The installation of raised beds with wildflowers and herbs, which will be used in the club’s kitchen, promoting local and sustainable food sourcing.

Positive Impact on Sport

Dave’s commitment to sustainability has not only had a profound impact on SUFC but has also influenced the broader football community:

• EFL Green Clubs Scheme: SUFC is now one of only three clubs certified under the EFL Green Clubs initiative. Dave has actively contributed to the EFL’s sustainability group, sharing SUFC’s successes and best practices through an online forum, inspiring other clubs to follow suit.
• Climate Fresk Training: As an experienced facilitator of Climate Fresk training, Dave extolled the benefits of this innovative training tool to the EFL’s sustainability leadership. The EFL has since embraced Climate Fresk, with plans to deliver this training across other clubs.

Dave’s leadership has also raised awareness among SUFC’s fan base, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility within the community. The club’s sustainability initiatives, from the switch to low-carbon energy to sustainable transport options, have engaged fans and demonstrated that even grassroots football can play a critical role in addressing climate change.

Conclusion

Dave Farebrother’s exceptional leadership in environmental sustainability has transformed Sutton United Football Club into a model for green practices in football. His ability to create impactful change from the ground up—implementing energy-saving initiatives, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering a culture of sustainability—has earned him the Champion of the Year Award at the BASIS Awards.

Through his efforts, SUFC has not only made significant strides toward carbon neutrality but has also contributed to the wider conversation on sustainability in sport. Dave’s dedication to personal development, his ability to build sustainable networks, and his drive to hold both himself and the club accountable have set a benchmark for sustainability in football. His work is a powerful reminder that individuals in sport can make a lasting difference in the fight against climate change.