Sunderland AFC unveils special crest to highlight climate change crisis
By Staff on Saturday, March 15, 2025
Sunderland AFC is making a powerful statement this weekend by altering its iconic crest to spotlight the devastating effects of climate change.
The Black Cats have revived their iconic ship badge from 30 years ago but with a eye-catching twist.
Rising sea water now submerges the word “Sunderland,” a stark visual warning about the growing threat of climate change.
In support of Green Football’s Great Save initiative, the club’s badge will reflect the potential impact of rising sea levels a stark warning about the future of coastal areas like Roker Pier and Sunderland Marina, which could be submerged by 2050.
Climate change is already affecting the North East, with extreme weather events like Storm Babet causing structural damage to Roker Pier. Additionally, 120,000 football matches are cancelled annually due to flooding, and within 25 years, a quarter of stadiums could experience regular flood damage.
🔙 In 2023, successive storms destroyed parts of Roker Pier, our beloved local landmark.
Maureen is a lifelong Sunderland supporter and volunteer tour guide for the Roker Pier.
To mark #GreenFootballsGreatSave, Maureen tells us her story. 💚 pic.twitter.com/0HhWrdEORi
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) March 14, 2025
As part of its Ready Eco strategy, Sunderland aims to be energy-sufficient by 2028 and reach net zero by 2040.
Match-worn shirts from Saturday’s game will be auctioned to support sustainability projects, while fans can trade old kits for discounts at Fanatics.