9 April 2010: The Punjab Cricket Association hosted the first-ever carbon neutral cricket match on 9 April 2010, in Punjab, India. The green match, organized by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Indian Premier League, was part of the “Batting for the Environment” initiative, launched in March 2010.

According to UNEP, emissions calculations for the game took account of the travel, accommodation and food consumption of all the players and officials, as well as local fans travelling to the venue. The carbon footprint from the game was minimized by offsetting an estimated 580 tons of match-related carbon dioxide emissions. Over US$10,000 will go towards supporting an internationally recognized residual biomass project in Rajasthan, India. The power generation project is intended to not only reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and soot, but also contribute to sustainable development by generating income for regional farmers selling agricultural residues.
To further extend the impact of the “Batting for the Environment” initiative, “Green Tips” are flashing across giant screens in stadiums and are being announced by commentators daily during the course of the 45-day tournament, advising cricketers and fans on how to play a part in limiting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. [UNEP Press Release]