In the world of football, this one is less about what’s on the pitch and more about if there will be a pitch in years to come, Sunderland Association Football Club has tackled the climate crisis head-on with a brand-new club crest.
The Black Cats last month ditched their traditional badge for an eco-conscious emblem, signalling a fresh chapter in the club’s history – one that champions sustainability.
A subtle yet striking visual transformation shows the rising sea levels covering the iconic ship on the club’s crest and offers an on pitch and on player reflection of the club’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmental awareness among its fans.
Created as part of Green Football’s ‘Great Save Initiative,’ the iconic Ship Crest was used between 1977 and 1997, making a return and updated to demonstrate how this relationship may change in years to come, with the club’s name partially submerged under water.
With an estimation that global sea levels have risen around 21-24cm on average, with the highest temperature in any year since 1850 being recorded in 2024 and the fact that the city’s pier and marina could be gone by 2050,
While some traditionalists might miss the old crest, the overwhelming sentiment is one of support for Sunderland’s progressive new direction. In the face of a global crisis, the Black Cats are showing that it’s possible to score goals both on and off the pitch.
