Using a sector-specific ESG tool and rating system, Eintracht Frankfurt is setting a benchmark in assessing sustainability performance in professional football. This innovative, data-driven approach enables the club to generate an annual ESG score, measure progress, and continuously refine its operations. At the same time, the club must navigate complex tensions due to the high demands of professional football. Balancing these challenges requires carefully weighed decisions that ensure sporting competitiveness while living up to environmental, social, and corporate responsibilities.
ESG Score 2023
Following a comprehensive data collection process, the third ESG rating for Eintracht Frankfurt Fußball AG was completed at the end of 2023. The score improved from 66/100 in 2022 to 70/100 in 2023, up from 59/100 during the pilot phase in 2021. This increase is attributed to the implementation of numerous sustainability projects across all areas. The club shows strong performance in the Social and Governance dimensions, while there remains room for improvement in ecological sustainability.
Detailed Results
ESG Score Methodology
The ESG framework (criteria catalogue) was developed specifically for the sports and entertainment sector. It is based on over 300 sustainability criteria, divided into 25 areas of action, and is reviewed by an external partner during the rating process. These criteria merge sector-specific standards, such as DFL licensing requirements, with global sustainability reporting requirements.
The digital ESG tool provided by DeKoBe ESG is used for data collection. The data for the 2023 ESG score was collected between January 1 and December 31, 2023. During this period, 98% of all available metrics were captured and evaluated.
The data used for assessment is collected through three types of indicators:
- Binary indicators: Yes/No questions to verify the presence of actions, policies, responsibilities, structures, etc.
- Numerical indicators: These measure specific outcomes and consumption metrics (e.g., water, waste, electricity, spectator numbers, distances). Standardization allows for comparability and identification of sector benchmarks.
- Categorical indicators: These assess the scope and quality of actions, programs, or concepts. The content is collected similarly to the other types, but assessed in a second step through structured expert interviews.
Points are assigned to Eintracht Frankfurt for each indicator based on the response, with weighting depending on the type and relevance of the metric.
Our Partners
SustainGoals
- ESG certification specialist.
- Responsible for the technical implementation and further development of the ESG tool for internal data collection at Eintracht Frankfurt.
- Conducts external, independent assessment and validation of all sustainability indicators.
Other Partners
- Support the annual data collection process (e.g., by providing monthly consumption values for CO2 accounting).
- Co-develop and implement sustainability projects with Eintracht Frankfurt, such as infrastructure upgrades to reduce energy use.