Policy and Commitment
- A sustainability strategy and an environmental strategy have been designed and approved (both strategies are currently internal documents and are being further developed with the DFL).
- Established a “Sustainability” staff unit which is headed by a sustainability officer.
- In May 2022, LEDVANCE became Bayer 04’s official sustainability partner.
- Bayer 04 is a member of EFDN, which is part of the UN campaign “Football for the Goals”.
- Took part in the ‘sustain Club’ sustainability certification and as part of that process Bayer 04 were awarded the ‘sustain Club silver’ certification.
- Bayer 04 is currently calculating its CO2 footprint (results are not yet available).
Clean/Renewable Energy
- Since 2015, Bayer 04 uses 100% certified green electricity.
- Roofs of garages and warehouses at the stadium are equipped with photovoltaic systems.
- Newly introduced electric mowers of the greenkeeping are charged and operated on a test basis
Energy Efficiency
- Bayer 04’s energy policy can be found here: https://www.bayer04.de/de-de/page/ueber-uns/energiepolitik-des-klubs
- Sensor-controlled building technology in the stadium for energy, heating and water systems.
- Replaced all lights in all of Bayer 04 buildings with LEDs.
- The pitch heating systems at Bayer 04 are connected to a weather station and thus to the current forecasts. This method saves more than two thirds of energy for heating.
- Lava stone gravel under the stadium’s grass cover ensures additional energy savings.
Sustainable Transport
- With a match day ticket, fans can use public transport free of charge on the day of the match (VRS & VRR public transport networks).
- Four electric car charging stations have been installed and are in operation in front of the south entrance of the stadium. Additional charging stations are being planned.
- E-charging stations can also be found at other Bayer 04 properties.
- There is approximately 2,000 bicycle parking spaces at the stadium.
- Bayer 04 has regular campaigns to encourage sustainable mobility e.g Free safety check for all bicycles at the BayArena.
- Company cars are becoming increasingly hybrid or electric.
- Through Company Bike Solutions, Bayer 04 offer a bike leasing scheme to employees.
- Bayer 04 last mobility survey was carried out in 2016 with RWTH Aachen. In April 2023, Bayer 04 launched a new fan mobility survey.
Single Use Plastic Reduction/Removal
- A reusable cup system in the stadium has been in place since 2019.
Waste Management
- Percentage of waste diverted from landfill has not been provided.
- Bayer 04 has set itself a reduction target for avoiding waste and has created a concept for the systematic handling of waste.
- During disposal, there are different containers for residual waste and reusable cups.
- Glass, paper/cardboard, wood, e-waste/metals are separated.
- The club has recently invested in two composting plants which convert grass cuttings and food waste from all events in the BayArena into compost.
Water Efficiency
- Annually measures water consumption and waste water production. Bayer 04 has set itself a target and measures for reducing water consumption.
- Waterless urinals in the stadium.
- Water-saving aerators have been installed on taps at the stadium.
- Bayer 04 only uses well water to irrigate the pitches.
Plant based/low carbon food
- Vegetarian/vegan food is available in the public areas of the stadium. Options include Bulgur Cup with falafel, as well as mushroom and various potato dishes respectively.
- In the Hospitality area, dishes change every match day and include various vegan and vegetarian dishes.
- Staff and players are given vegetarian/vegan options.
- Caterer purchases food regionally.
- Only fish from sustainable catches is offered.
- Any meat offered is organic.
Biodiversity
- No strategy available.
Education
- No information found.
Communication and Engagement
- A sustainability strategy and an environmental strategy have been designed and approved (both strategies are currently internal documents and are being further developed with the DFL).
- A new “Sustainability” page is under construction.
- Employee brochure on sustainable use of resources in the workplace.
- Encouraged fans to cycle to the club’s home fixture vs RB Leipzig in April 2023 by offering a free bike check at the stadium.
Additional information
- Bayer 04 holds workshops for school classes in the BayArena on various topics (e.g. anti-discrimination, healthy nutrition, inclusion, prevention of bullying.
- Nutrition counselling and fluid management workshop for junior athletes.
- Nutrition workshop for schoolchildren.
Information sourced directly from Bayer 04 Leverkusen staff, website and third party websites
Information updated May 15 2023
