How Football is Tackling the Climate Crisis

Join experts as they discuss how football can lead societal change towards sustainability and combat the climate crisis.

The world of football is more than just a sport; it’s a global phenomenon with the power to influence societal norms and inspire collective action. As the climate crisis intensifies, the football community is stepping up to address environmental challenges.

This event, inspired by the research of Daniele Pollicino, will delve into how football clubs, players, fans, and governing bodies are taking action to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable behaviors.

From reducing emissions and plastic use in stadiums to engaging supporters in eco-friendly practices, football is uniquely positioned to lead societal change.

The discussion will draw on insights from behavioral science, social psychology, and environmental policy research to explore the potential of football as a catalyst for climate action.

Meet the Speakers

Elliot Arthur-Worsop, a climate expert and Sports Industry 30-under-30 Leader, is the founder of Football For Future (FFF) a non-profit dedicated to climate awareness and sustainable impact in football.

FFF has developed industry-leading climate education programs, player advocacy campaigns, and sustainability strategies for top football leagues and clubs, including the Premier LeagueArsenal and Chelsea.

Katie Cross CEO and Founder of Pledgeball is a pioneer in accelerating climate action through sports. Pledgeball works with stakeholders across the sports community to mobilize pro-environmental choices, reducing emissions on game day and beyond. Katie’s efforts have engaged fans and driven structural changes in sports organizations.

Alexei Rojas a rising star at Arsenal and the Colombia U20 team, combines his athletic prowess with a commitment to environmental and social impact. Alexei has championed sustainable practices at Arsenal, including recycling initiatives, waste reduction, and the elimination of single-use plastics. He also collaborates with Common Goal and Charity Boots to support sport for social impact projects globally.

Lorraine Whitmarsh an environmental psychologist from the University of Bath specializes in perceptions and behaviors related to climate change. As the Director of the ESRC-funded UK Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations (CAST) she advises governmental and other organizations on low-carbon behavior change and climate change communication.

Jan Zglinski Associate Professor at the LSE Law School focuses on sports law and regulation. His research includes proposals for improving sports governance through EU legislation and submissions to the House of Commons on the Football Governance Act.

Event Details

This event is part of the LSE Festival: How to Save the Planet running from Monday, June 15 to Saturday, June 20, 2026. The festival explores how existential threats like the climate crisis, conflict, and AI are transforming our world and societies. Booking for all festival events will open on Monday, May 18, 2026.

The Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science at LSE conducts cutting-edge research that is both based in and applied to the real world. For any queries about the research behind this event, please email Daniele Pollicino at [email protected]. For other event-related queries, email [email protected].

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