Scotland fans ‘take the lead’ in offsetting emissions from travel to World Cup

Scotland fans are “taking the lead” in negating carbon emissions in the US this summer, with the launch of an app to help offset their footprint during the World Cup.

Dubbed the Tartan Army App, it will see users input their means of transportation to and from games, and the amount of carbon their journey will release into the atmosphere is then estimated.

It then gives fans the option to offset their carbon footprint for a small donation, part of which will go towards the children’s charity the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal.

The app also highlights various events of interest to Scotland fans around Boston and Miami, as well as providing travel updates and incidents.

The app was launched on Wednesday by the Scottish Football Supporters Association (SFSA), alongside the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal, the Famous Tartan Army Magazine and Greener Travel.

Paul Goodwin, co-founder of the SFSA said: “The World Cup has really raised serious issues around the environmental impact caused by the expanded tournament and the essential travel for teams and supporters across three countries.

“We have been in dialogue with many members of the Tartan Army about what we as ordinary fans can do to negate some of the problems caused by the environmental impact of the tournament.

“We are delighted to partner with Scottish-based company Greener Travel to offer all Scottish fans the opportunity to offset part or all of their carbon footprint as they travel to our first World Cup finals in 28 years.

“There is a huge added benefit in that for every offset purchased, a direct donation will be made by Greener Travel to the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal.”

Dave Nicholson of Greener Travel added: “This is a momentous moment for Scotland, and fans taking the lead in supporting our nation whilst leading the way in sustainable travel reflects not only support for the team but the whole planet.

“We also want to reflect the amazing job that the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal do by passing on a commission so that every time Scotland fans travel they can offset their carbon and in doing so give to the charity.”

Neil Forbes of the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal said: “What a fantastic way for the Tartan Army to celebrate our fans helping make Scotland the leader in carbon reduction whilst supporting our team no matter where they play and in doing so contributing to our charity.

“It is not only good for the planet but also good news for us as a charity too that supports children’s charities wherever Scotland play an international match away from home.”

The app launched online on Wednesday at tartanarmy.fanversehq.com and will be available on the app store at a later date.