The Desert Vipers will host their annual Sustainability Match on Sunday, December 14, at the Dubai International Stadium. This year, fans can look forward to a unique surprise as players hit the field in a specially designed jersey for the event.
Throughout the season, the team has sported green kits to emphasize their dedication to sustainability as a core brand value. The new jersey, inspired by Professor Miles Richardson of the University of Derby, features ‘Biodiversity Stripes,’ representing global wildlife populations over the years: green indicates abundant wildlife, while fading to grey signifies a decline.
This design aims to spotlight the 73% drop in global wildlife populations over the past 50 years. The broader message extends beyond cricket to all sports: healthy ecosystems are vital for regulating heat, water, and soil, essential elements for sports.
Without nature, sport cannot thrive.
Produced by PALMFIT in the UAE, the kit is crafted from 100% recycled materials and will later be transformed into a special artwork.
Phil Oliver, CEO of Desert Vipers, expressed pride in the team’s sustainability efforts and noted that this innovative kit highlights a critical issue. “Wearing the Biodiversity Stripes at our Sustainability Match, viewed by millions, emphasizes the need to reverse biodiversity loss,” he stated.
“We’ve significantly reduced our environmental impact and invite others to join us in this effort. Cricket and nature are intertwined, and we aim to champion both,” he added.
Professor Miles Richardson highlighted that the Global Biodiversity Stripes visually depict biodiversity loss since 1970. Bright green marks higher biodiversity, while darker greys indicate severe declines. He expressed delight that the Desert Vipers, named after a species group, will wear the stripes on December 14.
Jana Janotova, Senior Programme Coordinator, Sports for Nature at IUCN, praised the Vipers for their impactful initiative using the kit to tell the story of nature’s decline.
The match serves as a platform to explore new ways to lessen cricket’s environmental impact. On December 14, the Crickmas fan zone will feature engaging activities to involve visitors and showcase innovative green practices adopted by the Vipers.
The fan zone will offer upcycled giveaways from last season’s kits, provided by Middlesex University Dubai. Bright Bites will provide healthy snacks for young attendees, and RAW Coffee Company will host a cycle-to-charge activity, offering a fun experience for visitors.
The Vipers’ Talent Pathway Programme coaches will conduct cricket coaching sessions, reinforcing the team’s commitment to community engagement and supporting local athletes. They will also run sustainability-themed mini-games for younger fans.
As the first cricket franchise to publicly report their carbon footprint, the Desert Vipers have reduced it by 20% since the DP World ILT20 Season 1 through strategic partnerships and initiatives.
