Green and Fair Trade Sports Gear, Equipment, and Stadiums

Protecting the environment is so important and vital to life. However, there are many things people do every day without realizing how harmful they are. Sporting gear and equipment can not only be wasteful, but a large portion of it is made in sweatshops. These are overseas factories in which employees may be under-aged, overworked, under-compensated, and even all three. Imagine all the rubber, fabric, metals, and wood that gets wasted every year on sports. There are green sustainable options available for every aspect of sports.

Fair trade and environmentally friendly sports balls

Did you know that you can buy balls that are certified as both fair trade and environmentally friendly? If you're going to purchase a ball anyhow, why not do the right thing and purchase one you can feel good about using? By using balls like the ones sold by FairTradeSports.com , you are helping to fight against child labor, unfair pay, and substandard working conditions. The prices are comparable, and in some cases, lower than other sports balls. So, there is no excuse not to make the switch.

Green outdoor gear

Buying used or recycled sporting gear and equipment can also help save the environment. One company, called Attayne, uses recycled items (like plastic bottles, old clothing, old shoes, and more) to make high quality sports clothing and gear. They sell items for hiking, running, climbing, biking, yoga, and other active outdoor purposes. If you need a specific sporting item, but rather need active wear to fit your lifestyle, try Etiko, Greenzer, and Howie's.

Green sports teams

Some of your favorite American sports arenas and stadiums may be greener than you think. Some basketball, baseball, football, and ice hockey teams play in LEED-certified arenas. The New York Mets, Houston Rockets, and Detroit Lions are just some of the many sports teams supporting green initiatives. From cleaning supplies, to waste reduction, energy usage, and equipment, sports teams are wising up to greener practices.

Buying sporting equipment locally

When you buy sporting gear, clothing, and equipment, always be sure to check the label. Is it clearly marked fair trade? If not, that item might have been produced under unfair working conditions, including child labor. In addition to purchasing items clearly marked as fair trade, you can also support local artisans. Buying locally helps preserve the environment in many ways. One big difference is a reduction in the use of natural resources from transportation.

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