Core Principles
Introduction
The Together Greener Programme is built around practical action, but how actions are planned, delivered and sustained matters just as much as what is done.
These core principles underpin everything within Together Greener. They are not additional tasks or requirements. Instead, they are ways of working that help Clubs take action more effectively, involve more people and create lasting impact over time.
Every Club is different, and these principles can be applied in ways that work best for your Club, your facilities and your community.
These principles include:
- Embedding sustainability.
- Partnerships and engagement.
- Accessibility and inclusion.
- Climate resilience and adaptation.
- Learning & improvement.
Use the sections below to explore each core principle in more detail and consider how they can support your Club’s Together Greener journey. Click into each principle to find practical guidance and examples that can be applied in ways that work best for your Club. You do not need to address everything at once; focus on what is most relevant and return to the principles as your Club’s approach to sustainability develops over time.
Embedding sustainability
Sustainability is strongest when it is considered as part of everyday Club decisions.
Together Greener Clubs are encouraged to embed sustainable thinking into how decisions are made, whether that is planning activities, spending money, maintaining facilities or setting long-term priorities. This helps sustainability become part of the fabric of the Club rather than a separate project.
Clubs could consider:
Considering sustainability when purchasing equipment, services or supplies.
- Including sustainability as a standing agenda item at committee meetings.
- Asking simple questions before decisions are made, such as long-term cost, environmental impact or future resilience.
Partnerships and engagement
Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and clubs do not need to act alone.
Together Greener encourages Clubs to work with others, including local authorities, facility owners, leagues, schools, community groups and partners. Strong engagement with players, parents, volunteers and supporters also helps build understanding, ownership and momentum.
Clubs could consider:
- Sharing learning and resources with other Clubs in the area.
- Working with facility owners or local authorities to influence sustainable improvements.
- Partnering with schools, community groups or local organisations on shared initiatives.
- Involving players, parents and supporters in ideas and actions.
Accessibility and inclusion
Sustainability action should benefit everyone and should never create barriers to participation.
Together Greener Clubs are encouraged to consider accessibility and inclusion when planning and delivering actions. This includes thinking about who can access facilities, who is involved in decision-making and how information is shared.
Clubs could consider:
- Ensuring sustainability actions do not increase costs or exclude members.
- Making facilities and spaces as accessible as possible.
- Use clear, inclusive communication when sharing information.
- Involving a diverse range of voices in Together Greener Teams and decisions.
- Aligning sustainability action with wider inclusion and wellbeing goals.
For further support and information about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, visit www.PAWB.cymru
Climate resilience and adaptation
Clubs are already experiencing the impacts of climate change, from extreme weather to changing pitch conditions.
Together Greener supports Clubs to think not only about reducing environmental impact, but also about preparing for and responding to future challenges. This helps protect facilities, activities and long-term Club sustainability.
Clubs could consider:
- Using nature-based solutions, such as planting or drainage improvements, where possible.
- Identifying risks such as flooding, overheating or water shortages.
- Managing pitches and grounds to cope with changing weather.
- Planning maintenance and upgrades with future climate conditions in mind.
Learning and improvement
Together Greener is about progress, not perfection.
Clubs are encouraged to reflect on what is working, learn from challenges and build on successes over time. Sharing learning within the Club and with others helps strengthen the wider football community.
Clubs could consider:
- Celebrating progress, no matter how small.
- Reviewing Together Greener actions at least once a year.
- Gathering feedback from members and volunteers.
- Updating Together Greener Goals based on what has been learned.
- Sharing successes and lessons with other Clubs and the FAW.
