VIEW SAINTS’ SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
This weekend’s Gallagher PREM fixture against Bath marks Northampton Saints’ annual Green Game – a chance to shine a light on the work being done across the Club to operate more sustainably and to encourage supporters to play their part.
Sustainability is a long‑term commitment for Saints. Our ambition at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens is to operate one of the most sustainable rugby stadiums in the country, while helping to drive positive change within the sport and our local community.
The Club’s Sustainability Strategy sets out a practical, evidence‑led approach focused on reducing environmental impact year on year, while remaining transparent about where improvements can still be made.
Saints are signatories to the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework, committing to its five climate principles and a pathway towards net zero emissions by 2040. We are also members of the British Association for Sustainable Sport (BASIS) and the Towards A Net Zero West Northants programme, working alongside partners to share best practice and improve how sustainability is measured and delivered.
Progress so far
Over the past decade, Saints have taken measurable steps to reduce emissions, waste and resource use across the stadium and training facilities. These include:
Renewable energy
Over 800 solar panels installed across stadium rooftops, generating hundreds of thousands of kWh of clean electricity and preventing significant carbon emissions.
Water management
Rainwater capture systems at both the stadium and High Performance Centre, used to irrigate pitches and reduce reliance on mains water.
Waste and plastics reduction
Eco‑Cup schemes, recyclable and compostable food packaging, water refill points, and waste segregation systems that divert all general waste to energy‑from‑waste facilities.
Food and drink innovation
Increased use of low‑carbon, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, alongside the introduction of plant‑based food options on matchdays.
Smarter data and reporting
Improved energy monitoring across sites and ongoing work to measure and report Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon emissions, providing a clearer picture of where further reductions can be made.
The Green Game in action
The Green Game brings this wider strategy to life on a matchday. First staged during the 2023/24 season, it focuses on engaging supporters through practical initiatives such as sustainable travel incentives, low‑carbon food choices, education sessions in schools, and fan pledges to reduce emissions.
The response from supporters has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong engagement across surveys, pledges and matchday activity – reinforcing the belief that sustainability works best when it’s a shared effort.
Supporters can find out more about what’s happening around this weekend’s Green Game, and how to get involved, by CLICKING HERE.
Looking ahead
Saints’ focus now is on continued progress: improving data accuracy, reducing emissions, and embedding sustainable thinking into everyday operations at the Club.
“Sustainability is a responsibility we take seriously at Northampton Saints, not just on matchdays but year‑round,” said Chief Executive, Julia Chapman.
“The Green Game is an important opportunity to showcase the progress we’ve made, be honest about where we still need to improve, and bring our supporters with us on that journey.
“By focusing on practical action, better data and long‑term thinking, we want to ensure the Club is taking meaningful steps to reduce its impact while remaining a vital part of our community.
“Importantly, the Green Game isn’t about doing something different for one weekend and then moving on – it’s about encouraging lasting change. Real progress only happens when we work together with our supporters, helping everyone make small, more sustainable choices that add up over time.
“The Club has a responsibility to lead, but the impact is far greater when fans are part of the journey. That’s why the Green Game focuses on engagement, education and long‑term habits, not just matchday initiatives.”