2020: The PNE Cup – outstanding commitment to the environment and community

The PNE Cup is more than just a football tournament – it is a symbol of embraced sustainability and regional commitment. For over 15 years, FC Geestland has been organising this major youth tournament in the district of Cuxhaven together with PNE AG. In 2020, the concept won the “Klima(s)check” for sports clubs, a prize of 10,000 euros presented to the club by the Climate Protection and Energy Agency of Lower Saxony and the LandesSportBund Lower Saxony for its sustainable approach to organising the PNE Youth Cup. It is financed by the Ministry for the Environment, Energy, Building and Climate Protection in Lower Saxony.

“We were, of course, highly delighted to have won the prize!” said Jörg Schröder, club chairman of FC Geestland and long-time PNE employee. “We produced a sustainability guide for all tournament participants with information on regional catering, waste reduction, climate-friendly travel to the event and renewable energies. There was even a tree planting initiative.”  

At the tournament itself, PNE trainees were on hand as “sustainability volunteers” to help people follow the principles set out in the guide and answer any questions. The event is still held in the town of Geestland, accompanied by a varied supporting programme for young and old alike.

The PNE Cup exemplifies the company’s values: taking responsibility, promoting a community spirit and actively embracing sustainability – both on and off the pitch.