Lewes FC Wins Environmental Sustainability Award at Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards

Lewes FC has once again proven itself as a trailblazer, earning the Environmental Sustainability Award at this year’s Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards on November 28.

This prestigious recognition highlights the club’s ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental footprint and inspiring positive change within the community.

Among Lewes FC’s standout initiatives is its reusable cup scheme, which has already prevented more than 10,000 single-use plastic cups from being discarded. This forward-thinking project not only reduces waste but also encourages fans to adopt eco-friendly practices.

The club has also introduced measures to promote sustainable transport, such as installing electric car chargers at the Mountfield Road car park and a new bike rack at Convent Field, making it easier for fans and visitors to choose greener travel options.

In addition, the club’s new shop embraces sustainability with a “pay what you like” model for old merchandise, giving items a second life while reducing waste.

During the Green Football Weekend in February, Lewes FC offered fans a full vegan menu, further aligning its operations with its eco-conscious values.

Lewes FC’s efforts have drawn national attention. The club was a key stop during Sport England’s “Going Green” cycling campaign, which showcased innovative sustainability practices in sport.

Chris Boardman, Sport England’s chair and an Olympic cyclist, and Paralympic legend Sarah Storey visited Lewes FC to spotlight its achievements.

Sustainability has long been a core focus for Lewes FC. The club has installed solar panels, cultivated a vegetable garden, and preserved biodiversity through grass banks and flower gardens at its Dripping Pan grounds.

Practical measures like extending the lifespan of the club’s 3G pitch through careful maintenance and introducing a tech recycling scheme for unwanted laptops and tablets this autumn further underlines its commitment to sustainable practices.

Looking ahead, Lewes FC plans to develop a new community facility at The Rookery, which will incorporate sustainable waste disposal and maintenance practices to advance its environmental mission.

Joe Short, one of the directors of Lewes FC, expressed pride in the recognition: “What drives Lewes FC is our commitment to our community. We’re a community-owned club, and we’re here to serve, to improve our facilities, and to give back.

“Sustainability is part of this – it’s about ensuring that our environmental impact on the community is as small as possible while maximising the positive change we can bring.”

He added: “Initiatives like solar panels, car charging ports, and eliminating single-use plastic are all steps in the right direction.

“Being recognised for our efforts shows that we’re making a difference. This award is a testament to the hard work of our staff, volunteers, directors, and community members who dedicate long hours to making these projects happen.”

Joe also encouraged other organisations to embrace sustainability, saying: “Ask your supporters what they want to see – your community will have great ideas.

“Change takes time and investment, but with collective support, you can achieve so much more.

“At Lewes FC, we’re driven by the desire to deliver impact, whether through gender equality, environmental sustainability, or good governance.”

Lewes FC’s Environmental Sustainability Award not only acknowledges its innovative efforts but also serves as a powerful example of how sports organisations can drive positive environmental change.

By integrating sustainability into its ethos, Lewes FC is setting the bar for others to follow while demonstrating that football clubs can lead the way in building a greener, more sustainable future.