Glossary of sustainability terms
General environmental and sustainability terms
Terms such as “sustainable”, “climate-friendly”, “environmentally friendly” and “environmentally responsible” can have different meanings depending on the context. At FCA, we therefore seek to explain such terms by referring to specific measures, systems, objectives or processes and, where relevant, by clarifying the scope of the underlying information.
The same applies to phrases such as “taking responsibility”. At FCA, such wording describes our efforts to address relevant issues and develop appropriate measures. It does not in itself constitute evidence of a specific environmental or social outcome.
“Building bridges. Inspiring people to get moving. Protecting the environment.”
This motto provides the overarching framework for FCA’s sustainability strategy. It summarises the strategy’s central areas of action and reflects our aim to use football to promote social cohesion, exercise, education and environmental awareness, linking these topics and making them accessible to different groups of people.
Bridge Builders
“Bridge Builders” is FCA’s partnership model and business network. It brings together companies that support different areas of the club’s sustainability strategy through project collaboration, knowledge exchange and communication formats.
Carbon footprint
A carbon footprint describes the greenhouse gas emissions associated with activities, processes or operations. At FCA, the term refers to the measurement and assessment of selected emission sources associated with the club’s operations and facilities. The emission sources, organisational boundaries and calculation methods included in each assessment depend on the underlying data and methodology.
EMAS
EMAS is an environmental management system established by the European Union. It provides a framework for systematically identifying environmental aspects, setting objectives and measures, reviewing progress regularly and reporting transparently through an environmental statement. Its requirements also include independent external verification.
Energy management and supply
At FCA, “energy management and supply” refers to the systems, infrastructure and operational processes used to provide electricity, heating and cooling across the club’s facilities. This includes technical equipment, purchased energy and relevant operating procedures. Under EMAS, energy-related aspects can be systematically recorded, assessed and taken into account when setting objectives and measures.
FCA family
The “FCA family” is a collective term used in FCA communications for the people and groups connected with FC Augsburg. These include fans, members, staff, partners, volunteers and others involved with the club.
FCA Forest
The FCA Forest is a local reforestation project near the WWK ARENA, carried out in cooperation with the City of Augsburg and its forestry department. The project combines local environmental engagement with opportunities for participation and forms part of FCA’s environmental activities.
Footprint
At FCA, “footprint” is used as an umbrella term for impacts associated with our activities. Depending on the context, it may refer to environmental impacts overall or to specific dimensions such as climate, water or materials. The scope of each assessment depends on the underlying data, methodology and reporting boundary.
Social responsibility
At FCA, “social responsibility” refers to the social dimensions of our activities and to the ways in which the club seeks to contribute to society. In practice, this may include educational programmes, initiatives that support social cohesion, opportunities for participation and dialogue, and other community-based activities.
Green Week
“Green Week” is FCA’s programme of activities and communications focusing on environmental and climate-related topics with local relevance. A dedicated Bundesliga home matchday is a central part of the programme. Depending on the theme, activities may address topics such as water, mobility, recyclable materials or education, supported by information and opportunities for people to get involved.
Handprint
At FCA, “handprint” refers to the potential contribution of activities or initiatives beyond the club’s own operations. The term is used mainly in relation to areas such as exercise and education, awareness-raising and community engagement. Any specific effects depend on the design, reach and context of the individual initiative.
Climate resilience
At FCA, “climate resilience” means considering climate-related changes and risks in relation to facilities, infrastructure and operational processes. Depending on the circumstances, this may include measures that help the club respond appropriately to changing climatic conditions and potential extreme weather events.
Sustainability
At FCA, “sustainability” means considering the environmental, social and economic dimensions of our activities in a connected way. It provides the overarching framework for how we prioritise topics, develop measures and define objectives across both our own operations and our wider role in society.
Sustainability strategy
At FCA, the sustainability strategy defines the framework for our priorities, objectives, measures and reporting processes in environmental, social and economic matters. It helps us structure, coordinate and further develop sustainability-related activities across the club.
Sustainability in football / Sustainability through football
“Sustainability in football” refers to measures and processes relating to the club’s own operations, including stadium and business operations, environmental management, organisation and infrastructure.
“Sustainability through football” refers to activities that use football as a platform to support areas such as education, social cohesion, participation and environmental awareness.
Environmental footprint
An environmental footprint describes the environmental impacts associated with activities, processes or operations. At FCA, the term is used for the measurement and assessment of selected environmental aspects linked to the club’s operations and facilities. The aspects included depend on the scope, data availability and methodology applied.
Renewable energy sources
At FCA, “renewable energy sources” refers to energy sources and forms of supply that are naturally replenished within a relatively short period or whose use does not deplete the source in the short term. Depending on the context, the term may refer to specific energy sources, technical systems or elements of the energy supply at our facilities. One example is electricity purchased for club operations that, according to supplier information, is generated from hydropower.
Regional environmental protection
At FCA, “regional environmental protection” refers to environmental activities with a local or regional focus. Depending on the initiative, this may relate to the stadium surroundings, the city of Augsburg or the wider region. The geographical scope is determined by the individual measure or project.
Environmentally and climate-conscious behaviour
“Environmentally and climate-conscious behaviour” refers to actions aimed at using resources more carefully and taking environmental and climate-related considerations into account. Examples may include separating waste, using public transport where feasible, and handling energy and water more carefully.
Water footprint
A water footprint describes water-related aspects associated with activities, processes or operations. At FCA, this may include direct water consumption and, where data and methodology allow, selected upstream or downstream water-related impacts.
Recyclable materials management
“Recyclable materials management” refers to the systematic handling of materials and waste streams that can, where possible, be separately collected for recycling or other forms of recovery. At FCA, this includes processes in club and stadium operations relating to the collection, separation and transfer of suitable waste streams.
The United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are global goals addressing environmental, social and economic issues. They provide a common reference framework for sustainable development.
