Norwegian Football President Issues Warning Over Future Crisis Around Artificial Pitches
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Loading... - Adelino Langa
- 26 Feb 2025
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Lisa Klaveness, the President of the Norwegian Football Federation, has expressed growing concern over the impending crisis surrounding artificial football pitches in Norway. With the European Union set to ban the use of rubber granules by 2031 due to environmental issues, Klaveness is urging politicians to secure the necessary funding for a significant transformation in the country’s football infrastructure.
The ban on rubber granules, which are commonly used to mimic grass on artificial pitches, poses a serious challenge for Norway, where approximately 1,800 artificial pitches are in operation. Many teams in the Norwegian Eliteserie rely on these surfaces, making the transition to alternative materials critical for the future of the sport.
Klaveness emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating that time is running out for Norwegian football to find a viable solution within the next six years. She calls for government funding to support the major changes required to replace the rubber granules with more environmentally friendly options. "Mobilization is required to establish a new plan which must go beyond the state budget," she said. "It requires an active policy to raise the power of football as a public health arena in the next ten years. It is endangered."
The EU Commission's decision to prohibit the purchase and sale of rubber granules aims to reduce pollution caused by microplastics, a growing environmental concern. According to the Norwegian news agency NTB, the estimated cost to replace the rubber granules with sustainable alternatives is around 7.35 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 630 million euros).
Klaveness acknowledges the environmental challenges posed by rubber granules but stresses that the transition must not come at the expense of children's and young people's participation in sports. "The challenge is extreme. We know that rubber granules are an environmental challenge. We support it, but it cannot be at the expense of children and young people's participation," she stated.
As the deadline approaches, the Norwegian Football Federation is calling for immediate action from policymakers to ensure that the future of football in Norway remains sustainable and accessible for all. The need for a comprehensive plan and funding is critical to navigate this impending crisis and protect the integrity of the sport.
