Join the Sustainable Sports Apparel Charter
The Charter is a practical framework that supports sports organisations to reduce the environmental impact of apparel. Developed with sports bodies, it recognises the specific operational and commercial realities of sport and focuses on achievable, collaborative actions that reduce waste and extend product life, supported by tailored one-to-one guidance.
Join the CharterAccess Charter HubThe Charter is structured around seven key areas and 15 commitments, designed to be delivered within two years. Each commitment is deliberately practical, requiring minimal time and low or no cost, and is designed to be embedded into existing ways of working. Progress is verified through a structured, evidence-based process to ensure credibility and accountability.
Why it matters
The textile industry is one of the most environmentally damaging global industries, contributing up to 10% of global emissions, significant water pollution, and millions of tonnes of waste each year. Sportswear is a fast-growing part of this system, relying heavily on synthetic materials and global supply chains that mirror the challenges of fashion. Sports organisations face unique apparel challenges, including value-in-kind agreements, performance synthetic materials, sponsorship requirements, long ordering lead times, and fixed competition cycles. Sport has both a responsibility and a unique opportunity to lead change, the Charter supports organisations to take action.
Benefits of joining the Charter
Expert Guidance: One-to-one support to help implement sustainable practices effectively.
Peer Networking: Opportunities to connect, share insights, and collaborate with other sports organisations.
Practical Resources: Access to support tailored for sports apparel.
Credibility & Recognition: Showcase your commitment through Charter branding and public acknowledgment.
Choose the pathway that fits your organisation
Pledge Pathway
£ 250
2 yearsFor organisations at the early stages of their sustainability journey who want structured support to prepare for full Charter signatory status within 24 months.
- Start-up pack with guidance
- One-hour onboarding call
- Check-ins at 6, 12 and 18 months
- Final readiness review at 24 months
- Ad-hoc email support
Signatory Pathway
£ 625
2 yearsFor organisations ready to formally commit to the Charter roadmap and take part in a verification process to demonstrate progress and impact.
- Quarterly 1:1 check-ins (8 total)
- Tailored expert support
- Training guidance for staff & athletes
- Inclusion in Annual Charter Review
- Audit & verification session
Five areas members commit to
By joining you commit to…
Waste Reduction
Reduce waste through responsible procurement and reuse.
Product Life Extension
Extend apparel life via repair, reuse and repurposing.
Sustainable Procurement
Prioritise materials with environmental and social benefits.
Transparency & Accountability
Track and report progress openly.
Collaboration & Learning
Share knowledge and work together for change.
How joining works
Need more information before joining the charter. Arrange a chat with us.
Ready to apply to join the charter. Complete the Charter Application Form.
Common questions
Who can join the Charter?
Any organization related to the procurement or use of sports apparel from grassroots clubs to national governing bodies will be considered.
How is it verified?
Charter progress is monitored through regular check-ins throughout the two-year timeframe. At the end of the two years, there is a formal verification process where organisations review and report on the progress they’ve made against the Charter criteria.
What happens after the two-year charter term?
At the end of the two-year verification period, organisations have three options: (i) Maintain Verified Charter Status: Pay a £250 renewal fee every two years, including high-level review and continued use of the badge. (ii) Recommit to New Roadmap: Re-enter full Charter cycle with updated roadmap and targets (£625 flat fee). (iii) Exit the Charter: If no renewal is made, organisations move to ‘Alumni Status’ and are no longer publicly listed.
Want to discuss joining the Charter? Get in touch.
Complete the form, and we’ll be in contact to discuss the next steps.
Address
Rural studio: Wayoh Barn
Blackburn Road, Edgworth
Bolton, BL7 0PZ