YASH KHAJURIA
LEH: In an impressive blend of sports and sustainability, Ladakh is gearing up to host the second edition of the Climate Cup, a football tournament celebrated for its exceptionally low carbon footprint. Scheduled to take place at an altitude of 11,000 feet, this unique event will unfold across three days, from September 1 to September 3, offering an exciting lineup of matches while championing environmental consciousness.
Organized by the Ladakh Football Association in collaboration with the Ladakh autonomous Hill Development Council, the Climate Cup has quickly become a flagship event aimed at raising awareness about climate change. General Secretary of the Ladakh Football Association, Tsering Angmo, emphasized the tournament’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “At 11,000 feet above sea level, six teams will gather for a week in September to compete in Ladakh’s Climate Cup. This event is a testament to our dedication to both sports and environmental preservation.”
The Climate Cup stands out as one of the world’s lowest carbon footprint football tournaments. Angmo highlighted that the tournament is entirely plastic-free, with battery-operated buses providing transportation for the teams. Additionally, players will be offered refreshments made from local fruits to support the region’s “green ecosystem.” In a notable green initiative, the forest department has pledged to plant 10 trees for every goal scored during the tournament.
The tournament trophy itself is a symbol of local heritage, crafted from wood and adorned with traditional Ladakhi motifs.
Football enthusiasts in Leh are eagerly anticipating the matches, which will feature six teams: Skalzaling FC, Gokulam Kerala FC, 1 Ladakh FC, North East United FC, the Tibet National Team, and J&K Bank. The opening match kicks off on Sunday, September 1, at 2:00 PM with Skalzaling FC facing Gokulam Kerala FC, followed by 1 Ladakh FC versus North East United FC at 4:30 PM.
The excitement continues with matches on September 2, as North East United FC takes on the Tibet National Team at 2:00 PM, and Gokulam Kerala FC squares off against J&K Bank at 4:30 PM. The group stage concludes on September 3 with the Tibet National Team playing against 1 Ladakh FC at 2:00 PM, and J&K Bank competing against Skalzaling FC at 4:30 PM.
In conjunction with the tournament, a one-day conference titled ‘Climate 11’ will be held on September 6, focusing on sports, sustainability, and climate change. This event aims to further the dialogue on how sports can contribute to climate action.
