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Can Soccer Uniforms Really Help Clean Up the Oceans?


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Can Soccer Uniforms Really Help Clean Up the Oceans?

Professional Sports Teams Battle Plastic Pollution

Who knew that the word “kit” could have so many different meanings? Or that a “kit” could accomplish so many different purposes? Recently, I discovered a meaning for this little word that was completely new to me.

Soccer Players

Did you know that “kit” can refer to uniforms worn by soccer players (aka “association football” in most other parts of the world). The reason I even know this is because it’s been in the news lately that some of these teams are wearing kits created entirely from ocean plastic!

  • For example, the 2018/2019 “third kit” (or away-game attire) of the Real Madrid team from the Champions League is made from recycled plastic. It’s also coral-colored to signify the various corals that are threatened by plastic pollution in the ocean.
  • The third kit of professional Italian football club Juventus is also made from recycled ocean plastic. Both of these teams’ third kits were designed by the conservation group Parley for the Oceans in collaboration with Adidas.
  • Not to be outdone, Manchester United of the Premier League will also have a third kit made from ocean plastic. What’s more, the Premier League itself has committed to removing single-use plastic from its operations and supply chains by 2020.

It’s great to see such prestigious sports teams helping to create awareness about the worldwide problem of plastic pollution. On this side of the pond, The University of Miami’s football team, the Hurricanes, also have new uniforms made from recycled ocean plastic. And the Chicago White Sox recently became the first major league baseball team to ban plastic straws!

comment_2Sporting events can often generate a lot of single-use-plastic waste, like plastic water bottles, cups, lids and straws. How do you avoid plastic at these events, either as a spectator or a participant? We’d love to hear about it—please share your experiences in the comments below.

Resources:

Would you choose to purchase clothing made from recycled plastic over normally sourced fabric?

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Yes:
 
80%
No:
 
20%
Total Votes:
105
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Kim Metzger
Kim Metzger
5 years ago

At the stadium I asked for my hot dog to be put in a paper cup instead of a plastic plate. I also brought my own straw and silverware made of bamboo.

Moderator
Admin
Moderator
5 years ago
Reply to  Kim Metzger

Great idea, Kim! Thanks for sharing!

Samantha Yule
Samantha Yule
5 years ago

Wow this is cool!

Angie Scott
Angie Scott
5 years ago

This is one time that I will head for the canned beer instead of the tap… b/c the cans are recyclable at most stadiums.

Heather Wiese
Heather Wiese
5 years ago

My question is, Will plastic ever go away, even when it’s recycled over and over again? I understand that when it’s reduced to its smallest particle, it will become dust that will never disintegrate. Something to think about…

uniform cleaning services
uniform cleaning services
4 years ago

If it is the another revolutionary steps taken to recycle the ocean plastic, then there is no doubt it is one best decision ever made. Turning ocean plastic into useful footballer dress can spread awareness as well on letting the people and other brands to cooperate with nature and take the same step as well.