The NFL, NHL, MLB, and NBA produce an estimated 35,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, which is contributed by fans alone, showing the massive environmental impact sports viewership has. With the arrival of Coach Deion Sanders, there has been an enormous increase in CU Buffs attendees and viewers, contributing to the environmental impact of Buffs’s games. Here are a few tips and ways to decrease your environmental footprint on game day, whether for a Buff’s game or any other game.
Sustainable Transportation
One of the easiest ways to be more sustainable on game days is by looking at more sustainable options for transportation to the game. As of August 2023, CU Boulder began allowing Lime E-scooters on Campus and the Hill. Using public transportation, such as the Boulder bus network, also has a significant impact on carbon emissions. Carpooling has been proven to reduce vehicle emissions, with an estimated 7.54 billion gallons of gasoline saved annually when adding one more person to a vehicle. Carpooling also helps lower the costs of parking and increasing parking capacity. Biking, walking, and skateboarding also add to sustainable ways of transportation. CU offers bike and skateboard locks across campus for safekeeping.
Recycle, Compost, and Contribute
During pregame, game time, and post-game activities, it is essential to recycle and compost whenever possible. CU Boulder offers trash, recycling, and compost bins on game days across campus. The CU Environmental Center provides a Sustainable Tailgate Zone, called Ralphie’s Green Stampede, on Franklin Field that is zero-waste and vehicle-free. It is also important to contribute to the sustainability effort, so if you see litter or garbage being disposed of improperly, do your best to contribute by disposing of it correctly.
Rethink Fan Merchandise and Decor
As fans, we all want to show our spirit for the Buffs, but frequently buying new merch or decor contributes to unsustainable practices. Getting CU clothing second-hand is easy in Boulder, with events like Thrifty Thursday outside the UMC or shopping at thrift stores for team merch or black and gold clothing. Simple DIY decor can be added to the game day environment, such as Buff string art, simple Buff’s canvases, or license plate art are some ideas.
Reduce Single-Use Plastic
We all love a red solo cup; I mean, there’s even a song about America’s love for red solo cups, but avoiding single-use plastics is vital to increasing game day sustainability. Using reusable plates, cups, and utensils is highly advised. If not possible, use compostable options instead. If you need additional serviceware, the Eco-Products tent located on Franklin Field will provide serviceware to fans. Bring an empty water bottle to the stadium and fill it at one of the refill stations located around the stadium. If, for some reason, you have to use a nonreusable option, save it for later use or refills.
Minimize Food Waste
There are several ways to minimize food waste on game day. Leftovers are inevitable, so encourage friends and guests to bring reusable food storage containers to bring home some leftovers. Local food banks and shelters will take leftovers for distribution. Freezing leftovers for later use is an excellent way to reduce food waste. Buying in bulk will also reduce food waste and garbage. Instead of getting multiple bags of chips, get the bulk size one so you only throw away one bag.
Enhance Energy Efficiency
If you are going to the game, make sure your thermostat and lights are off when you leave. If you watch the game at home, use an energy-efficient TV and turn the lights off wherever possible. If you’re having friends over, turn off your thermostat before they arrive, as more people will naturally increase the heat in your house. Try to plan your cooking schedule in advance so multiple dishes can be in the oven at once and lower oven usage.
Grill Sustainably
If grilling, use propane. While propane is still a fossil fuel, it burns cleaner and produces fewer emissions than wood or charcoal. Properly cleaning and maintaining your grill ensures it operates at peak efficiency.
By taking these steps, we can be more eco-conscious and sustainable on game days. As fans, we have the responsibility to enjoy the game and support the Buffs while taking steps to protect our planet for future generations and Buffs fans.