Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions, are set to wear their signature green kits as part of their “Green Initiative” during their IPL home clash against Delhi Capitals on Saturday at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The jerseys are made using recycled materials and are intended to reflect the franchise’s long-running push toward sustainability. RCB also claims it is the only carbon-neutral T20 franchise in the world, and says the programme—started in 2011—keeps evolving with a structured approach that prioritises measurement, accountability, and engagement from supporters as it targets a shift to carbon positivity.
Key takeaways
- RCB will wear recycled-material green jerseys for the home match against Delhi Capitals at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.
- The franchise says it is the only carbon-neutral T20 team globally, with the “Green Initiative” launched in 2011.
- RCB’s plan includes evaluating how fans travel and the emissions linked to spectator commutes on matchdays.
- Supporters are encouraged to use Bengaluru Metro services, enabled through match ticket access.
- The initiative extends to stadium waste segregation monitoring, renewable energy use such as solar lighting, and voluntary fan pledges.
- RCB plans matchday sustainability audits during the season and will compile findings into a sustainability report followed by independent assurance.
Green jerseys and the push toward carbon positivity
Speaking about the programme, Rajesh Menon, CEO of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said reaching carbon-neutral status as a T20 franchise is the outcome of sustained effort over many years. He added that the green jerseys are a visible reminder of that commitment, and expressed hope the initiative motivates fans and other stakeholders to adopt more responsible, sustainable habits.
How RCB measures impact on matchdays
A major element of RCB’s sustainability work is a detailed study of supporter conduct during matchdays. The franchise says it will use stadium-wide surveys across all stands to examine travel patterns, including how many fans opt for ride-sharing, and to estimate the carbon emissions generated per spectator. The goal is to build a clearer picture of the environmental effect of fan movement to and from the venue.
RCB also encourages fans to travel using public transport. In line with that, match tickets are described as offering access to the Bengaluru Metro, aiming to reduce reliance on conventional options. On-site at the ground, the franchise says it will continue enhancing its waste management systems, with close tracking and audits focused on how effectively waste is segregated.
Reducing emissions across operations
Beyond matchday practices, RCB states it applies multiple steps to lower and compensate for its carbon footprint. These measures include waste segregation and overall waste handling at the stadium, and the adoption of renewable energy sources—such as solar-powered lighting. The programme also includes voluntary commitments from fans to reduce dependence on traditional resources.
The franchise further reviews its operational footprint in detail, including emissions connected to team travel, accommodation, and energy usage. RCB says this involves checking travel distances and fuel consumption, estimating accommodation-related impact using room-night data, and validating stadium power consumption through diesel generator audits as well as electricity consumption records.
Audits, reporting and independent assurance
RCB adds that sustainability audits will be carried out during the course of the season at match venues, strengthening on-ground responsibility. The findings are expected to be consolidated into a comprehensive sustainability report, after which an independent assurance process will follow.
