Achim Steiner, the UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UNEP, said:
Together the IPL and UNEP are sending a clear and powerful signal to millions upon millions of spectators and fans: namely that if we all bat together, we can score fours and sixes for a more sustainable future.
Resisting the opportunity for puns, Lalit Modi, Chairman and Commissioner, Indian Premier League said:
As the most innovative sporting league in the world we fully comprehend our responsibility towards saving the planet by protecting our environment. The IPL is thus proud to join hands with the UNEP and under their guidance we are committed to ensuring a carbon neutral league soon.
The IPL will help the cause of the environment by the offsetting the carbon used for games and other operations, changing waste management practice, increasing energy efficiency and reducing water usage. The UNEP will assist the IPL in reducing emissions through the introduction of renewable energy and compensating for emissions. They will also provide the Indian Premier League with green merchandizing.
The IPL will utilize its popularity promote UNEP initiatives such as the Climate Neutral Network, the Billion Tree Campaign and World Environment Day, as well as promote environmental awareness by highlighting the 2010 International Year of Biodiversity, the Clean-Up the World Campaign and other initiatives in coming years.
