The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has today launched a new Environmental Progress Report, demonstrating how it is reducing its environmental impact and strengthening resilience across the game in Wales. The report I Gymru, I Yfory – For Wales, For Tomorrow provides an overview of the WRU’s environmental performance, highlighting actions to reduce the sport’s impact […]
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has today launched a new Environmental Progress Report, demonstrating how it is reducing its environmental impact and strengthening resilience across the game in Wales.
The report I Gymru, I Yfory – For Wales, For Tomorrow provides an overview of the WRU’s environmental performance, highlighting actions to reduce the sport’s impact on the environment, progress against key commitments, and areas where further improvement is needed.
For generations, Welsh rugby has evolved to meet new challenges both on and off the pitch. Today, the changing environment is one of the game’s most significant challenges. Extreme weather including more frequent flooding and periods of drought are already affecting clubs, facilities, pitches and fixtures.
Through direct actions, the WRU’s is working to protect the environmental conditions the game needs to continue to thrive, supporting both communities and local economies across the country.
Central to this journey is a commitment to lead by example. The WRU has invested in practical environmental improvements, particularly at the Principality Stadium, where initiatives have focused on reducing energy use, improving resource efficiency and embedding sustainability into operations.
Away from the national stadium, the WRU is working collaboratively with community clubs, supporters, suppliers and partners, encouraging more sustainable behaviours, the sharing of effective practice and supporting collective action on the environmental challenges facing the nation.
Recognising rugby’s wider influence in Welsh society, the Union is also increasing the use of local supply chains, reduce operating costs, and building stronger community partnerships aimed at delivering social and economic benefits alongside environmental gains.
Gavin Marshall, WRU Chief Financial and Operating Officer, said:
“We have made meaningful progress in reducing our environmental impact over many years, particularly through investment in Principality Stadium and support for our community clubs. However, we recognise that we are still on a journey, with much more to do, and this report is an important step in setting out both our achievements and our ambitions for the future.
“Protecting the future of Welsh rugby means protecting the environment and communities that sustain it. Many clubs are already experiencing the effects of rising costs and environmental pressures, often while operating with limited resources.
“Our priority is to help clubs become stronger, greener and more resilient. By supporting them to access funding, invest in energy efficiency and adopt more sustainable practices, we can reduce costs, strengthen their long-term financial sustainability and help secure the future of grassroots rugby.
“Ultimately, we want to build on the progress already made and use the reach and influence of Welsh rugby to deliver positive change across the country, both within the game and beyond.”
Darren Crossman, WRU Head of Facilities and Safety and Sustainability, said:
“The Environmental Progress Report reflects the unique role rugby plays in Welsh society.
“Rugby’s reach extends far beyond the pitch, connecting people, communities, businesses and organisations across the nation. Sustainability can create economic opportunities and generate value for Wales as a whole.”
To read the latest Welsh Rugby Environmental Progress Report in English click here, in Welsh click here.
For more on our Sustainability Policies, visit our website.