"Embedding sustainability into the heart of the club": Leeds Rhinos achieve the highest GreenCode standard

GreenCode has been operating for more than 25 years within The Green Britain Group. The prestigious accreditation supports and audits organisations across all sectors, providing the tools, guidance and recognition needed to embed sustainability into everyday business practices. 

Few sporting institutions can match the heritage, community reach and cultural influence of Leeds Rhinos. With tens of thousands of supporters visiting AMT Headingley Stadium and the club’s influence extending across generations, the Rhinos recognise the opportunity to use that platform to promote positive environmental change. 

Sustainability has also become increasingly visible across the day-to-day operations at the Rhinos' AMT Headingley Stadium day-to-day operations. Solar panels generate clean energy, a borehole reduces reliance on mains water for pitch irrigation, while food waste is processed on site rather than being sent to landfill. The club’s grounds team has also introduced electric mowers, reducing emissions while maintaining the playing surface. 

Our Director of B2B Sales & Marketing Chris Organ said: "The Rhinos are a club with a rich history and deep roots in their community, so it’s brilliant to see them embedding sustainability into the heart of the club. 

"As the first rugby club in the UK to achieve GreenCode Certification, let’s hope they inspire other clubs to follow their lead and take sustainability seriously too. Well done to everyone at the Rhinos — this is a great step forward. Onwards and upwards, and good luck for the season." 

 Leeds Rhinos Chief Operating Officer Sue Ward added: "We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded GreenCode certification, a recognition that reflects our commitment to embedding environmental sustainability into everything we do. 

"Sustainability is considered from the very beginning of every new initiative, ensuring that the places we create, the people we work with, and the planet itself are at the heart of our decision-making, operations and long-term planning across the entire Club." 

The GreenCode certification reflects the progress already made, while providing a framework for the club to continue raising its ambitions. Future plans include sustainability workshops for staff, greater engagement with suppliers and partners, and continued work to reduce the environmental impact of the club’s operations.  

Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive Jamie Jones-Buchanan said: "We’re a stage. A place where people gather. If we can show what sustainability looks like – at work, at home and in everyday life – then we can shape habits and behaviours for the better. 

"Being the first rugby club in the UK to achieve the highest GreenCode standard is something we can be proud of, but we see it as another step in a much longer journey. I would like to congratulate Sue Ward and her team in particular, who I know have done so much hard work behind the scenes to secure this certification."  

Leeds Rhinos will officially receive their GreenCode Award at their final home game of the regular season at AMT Headingley when Leeds take on Hull FC on Friday 11th September.