Roger Cowe writes about the social and environmental impacts of modern day football clubs. Among them includes environmental impacts such as fans choice of travel to games, supply chain issues such as the manufacture of clothing and equipment, and diversity, particularly relating to the involvement of ethnic minorities and women in the modern game, both as players and supporters. It is in the area of community engagement however, that football clubs have largely excelled.
Article 13's research for an EU project was used to highlight one example of football clubs partnering with the private sector, to help regenerate a deprived area of east London. Involving Milwall, Charlton Athletic, Leyton Orient and West Ham. Working with local communities, the aim was to combat social exclusion, reduce crime and support the area's regeneration. Ford, the US car manufacturer, is the project's main commercial sponsor, and aims to export the project to other communities where it has plants. |
