Morpeth RFC halves carbon emissions with hedgerow planting and zero-carbon electricity

Morpeth Rugby Football Club in Northumberland has cut its carbon footprint in half through a partnership with local carbon reduction business Green Acres. The club planted hedgerows on a wet training pitch to capture CO2 and reduce flooding, switched to zero-carbon electricity, and encouraged members to car-share and recycle more. Head coach Mike Dungait, who also runs Green Acres, said small actions like reducing the number of cars to away games added up quickly. The club is now planning to install solar panels on the clubhouse and a rainwater collection system for reuse. It also received robotic lawnmowers through the RFU's partnership with STIGA. The project shows how community sports clubs can cut emissions with practical, low-cost steps that also build engagement among members and families.