Leading Change: How Cricket Is Tackling Sustainability and Gender Equality Challenges

Deemed the "Gentlemen's Game," cricket is a sport rich in history, tradition, and heritage. While its impact in bringing communities together is significant, cricket faces unique logistical and environmental challenges as an 'international-first' sport. Moreover, its male-dominated history has made it difficult for women's cricket to gain the same exposure and recognition, despite the first-ever women's match being played back in 1934.

Recent reports indicate that around 40% of recreational cricket clubs in the UK are at risk of flooding and draughts; reflecting challenges faced by clubs worldwide.

However, rather than dwelling on the sport's obstacles, this article highlights some promising initiatives that give hope that our beloved game is heading in the right direction.

Here are three examples of cricketing bodies leading the way:

On 3rd Sep 2023, the UK saw the first of its kind completely sustainable game of cricket. As part of efforts to combat climate change, the Edgbaston cricket stadium was powered exclusively by solar, hydro, and wind energy for the day. Even the boundary cards used by fans were made from 'seed paper,' which could grow wildflowers when planted. The stadium's commitment extended to every detail: reducing meat in matchday meals, switching to electric lawnmowers, and minimising single-use plastics.

To further reduce the carbon footprint, especially from staff and fan travel, a free shuttle service was provided to encourage spectators to leave their cars at home.

With the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) launching its sustainability goals, and other grounds like the Lord's and the Oval already doing their bit to drive change, it seems like genuine transformation is on the horizon albeit still a long way to go.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) - arguably the biggest franchise cricket league in the world, has been under the spotlight for the last seventeen years. While the cricketing prowess of this league is unmatched, there have been questions about the sustainability of the event, especially with team and fan travel and the impact of night matches.

The IPL has adopted innovative strategies and partner activations to offset the environmental impacts and has partnered with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to implement green protocols.

Numerous initiatives and activations have been implemented to tackle climate change.

• For every dot ball, albeit rare in T20, the IPL has planted 500 trees for each one of them.
• Their title sponsor Tata Motors' initiatives from donating to wildlife conservation efforts and towards local coffee plantations is another example of transformational partner activations.
• The participating teams Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals have been involved in sustainable practices from planting trees to incorporating waste management protocols - all for a better future.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) became the first cricket governing body to announce equal match fees for their men's and women's teams. In a male-dominated sport, this was certainly a pioneering decision which was later followed by the Women's Premier League (WPL) in 2023.

The English Cricket Board (ECB) have followed suit and announced equal pay for their national teams from 2025. This comes after women's salaries were increased in the domestic Hundred competition in 2024, bridging the gender pay gap slightly.

While these positive steps should certainly be celebrated, there's quite a long way to go in all areas from sustainability to equality and diversity. It will take more than just the governing bodies to implement new solutions. The fans of the game need to step up too and play their part in supporting these initiatives as best as possible.