TBD
Indian cricket league goes green with the help of UNEP
Millions of cricket fans are expected to go green this Friday when the Indian Premier League (IPL) launches a UN-backed environmental awareness campaign.
IPL Chairman Lalit Modi (l) and UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner (r)
Players will make a Green Pledge to save the planet during a ceremony at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai marking the opening of the IPL's third season.
The campaign, entitled "Batting for the Environment," is a partnership between the league and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
UNEP Goodwill Ambassador Sachin Tendulkar and team captains from the Deccan Chargers to the Kolkata Knight Riders are set to take the pledge in front of an estimated 24 million spectators who will be watching the ceremony at the stadium, or live on television or via YouTube. After taking the pledge, the players will sign a giant globe made from recycled materials.
UNEP reports that green tips will also be displayed across giant screens in stadiums and announced by commentators during the 45-day tournament.
The campaign will also focus on making the IPL a truly green sporting event by working to reduce its impact on the environment. Recycling and carpooling will be encouraged, and fans will be asked to take an active part in helping the league to go green.
Dianne Penn, UN Radio.
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