Sporting pathways for a sustainable future

adidas and Common Goal team up for an environmental project in India

In Punjab, where extreme weather events like heatwaves, heavy rains, and flooding are becoming more frequent, one football club is rising to meet the challenge. Youth Football Club Rurka Kalan is using football to respond to the growing impacts of climate change.

With support from adidas and Common Goal, YFC is combining football with environmental action, building climate-resilient infrastructure and offering practical, hands-on learning that helps young people and their communities prepare for an uncertain future.

Climate adapted infrastructure:

YFC Rurka Kalan is developing facilities that can withstand extreme weather and promote environmental sustainability.

• A climate-resilient seating stadium built to host up to 2,000 spectators, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions to ensure year-round usability of the space.

• A sustainable water management solution that will collect rainwater runoff and redirect it into an existing reservoir. This system supports long-term water conservation and prevents on-site flooding.

• The installation of solar panels will provide clean energy to power stadium floodlights, enabling evening matches and reducing the site's carbon footprint.

• A new boundary wall, a barrier against floodwaters and debris during extreme weather events, protecting both the facility and its users.

Education on environmental sustainability through sports:

The project uses football to teach young people about climate change and sustainable living.

• Football-based training sessions incorporate climate education, giving young people and community members a hands-on understanding of environmental issues and sustainable solutions.

• Awareness-raising programme designed to promote community unity and individual empowerment, engaging residents in conversations about climate change, encourage eco-friendly habits, and inspiring collective environmental action.

By connecting sport with sustainability, YFC Rurka Kalan is creating a safe and inclusive space where young people can thrive.