The Rugby World Cup 2025 in England will not only be a celebration of athletic talent, but also a platform for environmental innovation. In line with global commitments to more responsible development, World Rugby has launched an ambitious Environmental Sustainability Program to be implemented across the tournament’s eight venues. The goal is clear: to reduce carbon emissions, promote the circular use of resources, and lay the groundwork for a lasting ecological legacy in each host community.

This sustainable approach is part of World Rugby‘s efforts to align its major competitions with the United Nations Sports for Climate Action Framework. The initiative was introduced at the FIA’s Sustainable Innovation Series, alongside the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Silverstone, and falls under the organization’s 2030 Environmental Sustainability Plans. The idea is to integrate green principles into all key functional areas of the tournament, from transportation to catering, including logistics, workforce, and broadcasting.

Local initiatives with global impact

The program is built around three pillars: strong governance, mitigation of direct impacts, and promotion of shared knowledge across the sport. To achieve this, each venue has received targeted funding for concrete environmental projects. For example, Brighton will implement biodiversity plans with tree planting and nesting boxes; Northampton will install electric vehicle charging stations; and Exeter will apply Clean Air Go technology to reduce pollution across more than 2,600 m² of printed materials. Additionally, water refill stations will be installed in Bristol and Salford, LED lighting in Sunderland and Exeter, and smart energy management systems in York.

Beyond the visible actions during the tournament, a post-event report on the championship’s carbon footprint will be published, serving as a learning tool for future events, including the 2029 edition in Australia. According to Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, these measures aim to leave a positive and lasting impact: “We support practical initiatives driven locally that will benefit communities and set a new benchmark for future Rugby World Cups.”