Cork GAA renew partnership with US multinational

By Daniel O’Neill

Following a successful first year which lead to changes at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork GAA and PepsiCo have this week announced plans to renew their sustainability partnership.

The aim of the positive action partnership is to raise awareness on positive climate action initiatives, implementing sustainable technology and encouraging sustainability within the local community.

Last year the collaboration led to PepsiCo’s 50th anniversary being Cork’s first hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuelled event. A waste management system was also introduced at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, and the electricity at the stadium was officially certified green. Cork’s GAA sustainability committee was also formed.

PepsiCo Little Island Site Director Brian Colgan said: “The first year of our partnership demonstrated how combining PepsiCo's sustainability expertise with Cork GAA's community reach can accelerate positive change. Through our pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) framework, we're aiming to achieve even more ambitious sustainability targets for 2025.”

Cork GAA CEO Kevin O'Donovan added: “Our work in 2024 has provided us with clear, actionable insights. Working with PepsiCo, we've already transformed our approach to waste management and energy use. For 2025, we're excited to expand our green initiatives across Cork through the Green Club scheme, continue to reduce our waste by helping match-goers make sustainable choices, and increase our use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel.”

Some of this year’s new goals include implementing actions from the completed Net Zero audit, achieving ISO20121 certification for sustainable event management, and expanding successful initiatives to clubs across Cork. The aim is to heavily focus on fossil fuel reduction, waste management improvements, and community engagement through volunteer programmes.