Ramon Alarcon, the chief executive of Real Betis, acknowledges that the environmental initiative named ‘The Greenest Game’ taking place before their match against Manchester United in San Diego does not adequately tackle the larger issues surrounding overseas pre-season tours.
Alarcon will join a group that includes former Manchester United striker Andrew Cole to announce a collaboration aimed at restoring Mission Valley, an ecological preserve along the San Diego River.
Additionally, Betis plans to distribute biodegradable bags during Wednesday’s match with United at Snapdragon Stadium to motivate fans to dispose of their trash responsibly.
The players will also utilize green reusable bottles to promote awareness of environmental challenges.
Alarcon passionately emphasizes his commitment to environmental issues, recognizing that he may face accusations of hypocrisy.
Upon their return from the United States at the end of the week, Real Betis will have traveled a total of 11,357 miles for two pre-season matches, starting with a 1-0 loss to Liverpool in Pittsburgh.
This travel distance would place them eighth in the Premier League’s rankings for the most air miles accumulated during pre-season, not accounting for two further trips to Germany following their US visit.
Manchester United tops the air miles table with pre-season trips to Norway, Scotland, and the US.
“Our goal is to leverage the influence of football to raise awareness about environmental issues, which transcends just Real Betis and Manchester United,” Alarcon told BBC Sport.
“The environment is crucial for all of us. It impacts the entire planet. That’s why it’s significant for two clubs, who have no ties to San Diego but have come to play here, to acknowledge their environmental impact and commit to making a difference.”
“When we discuss green initiatives, it doesn’t imply zero emissions. To achieve that, the ideal solution would be to refrain from any activity. Traveling internationally necessitates flying.”
Frank Huisingh, the founder of Fossil Free Football, criticized the initiative as “ridiculous,” pointing out that United’s co-owner, Ineos, is involved in petrochemicals.
He remarked: “Flying is the most environmentally harmful means of transportation. A match that requires two teams to fly across the globe can never be eco-friendly. We have also moved beyond simply raising awareness with reusable water bottles.
“If Manchester United and Real Betis are genuinely committed to these issues, they should cease international tours like this and arrange a green match against a local team.”
