Cricket’s Environmental Impact in India

The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off with a bang as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced off in the opening match on March 22, 2024. The event drew a massive audience, with 113 million views on JioCinema and 168 million unique viewers on Disney Hotstar, marking a 51% increase from the previous year.

Since its inception in 2007, the IPL has made a significant impact on the Indian economy. The IPL Valuation report for 2022 revealed that the IPL Ecosystem’s value skyrocketed from US$3.5 billion in 2015 to US$10.9 billion in 2022. This surge in value was driven by media rights, sponsorship deals, and increased ticket sales, leading to a boost in sports tourism, infrastructure development, and employment rates.

However, alongside its economic success, the IPL is also grappling with environmental challenges. The carbon footprint of a single IPL match in 2023 was estimated to be around 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e), highlighting the environmental impact of the sport. Factors contributing to this footprint include water usage for ground maintenance, electricity consumption, and travel logistics.

To address these environmental concerns, the IPL has taken steps towards sustainability. Initiatives such as installing solar panels, promoting waste separation, and using eco-friendly materials have been implemented to reduce the league’s carbon footprint. Teams like RCB, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals have also partnered with various organizations to drive climate action and raise awareness about environmental conservation.

While progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in making the IPL a more sustainable and environmentally friendly sporting event. By learning from other cricket leagues and adopting innovative practices, the IPL can continue to lead the way in promoting climate action and environmental stewardship in the world of sports.