Media release from the David Suzuki Foundation:
NHL players are “going green” in a big way, due in part to the success of the NHLPA Carbon Neutral Challenge program. Players are taking more action in their own lives to reduce their environmental footprint. With over 420 NHLPA members signing up for the second year of the program, the players continue to show leadership on the environment.
“I’m very proud that we’ve offset more than 4,200 tonnes of carbon emissions this season, which is like taking 840 cars off the road for a year,” said Andrew Ference, the Boston Bruins’ defenseman who initiated the NHLPA Carbon Neutral Challenge. “But best of all, I’m hearing of more and more players in the dressing rooms talking about ‘going green’.”
The NHLPA Carbon Neutral Challenge is part of the partnership between the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the David Suzuki Foundation. It enables NHL players to purchase high quality, Gold Standard carbon credits through Montreal-based not-for-profit, Planetair. These credits offset the travel emissions associated with playing professional hockey and minimize the players’ carbon footprint for their regular season travels.
“This is about awareness for the players and setting an example for the fans,” said Paul Kelly, NHLPA Executive Director. “Carbon offsets are only the beginning. We’ve seen the Challenge help players think green in their daily lives, and we hope our players will continue to lead professional athletes in embracing the latest environmental initiatives.”
“We’re thrilled that this initiative is still going strong and that so many of the players are finding additional ways to reduce their environmental footprint,” said David Suzuki. “This message should inspire fans, other athletes and sports organizations to do the same.”
Participating in the program has prompted several NHLPA members to use renewable energy, drive hybrid cars, and purchase locally grown food. Read personal stories from NHLPA “green ambassadors” below.
Hockey fans can get involved in this initiative by checking out both www.nhlpa.com and www.davidsuzuki.org/Climate_Change/Projects/Hockey.
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