Welcome to VfB Stuttgart`s sustainability page!
For us, sustainable action is much more than just a trend—it is a central component of our club philosophy. Through our social commitment within the framework of VfBfairplay, we take responsibility for the environment, society, and the economy—today and for future generations.
Beyond VfBfairplay, we are also committed to numerous environmental issues. On this page, you will find an overview of our initiatives, projects, and seals – and learn how we are actively contributing to a more sustainable future.
VfB FairPlay
Community, fairness and sustainability shape VfB's actions – both on and off the pitch.
This is reflected in our commitment to inclusion and integration, as well as in the design of our collections: with fair conditions, transparent supply chains and ecological standards.
GOTS
VfB uses 100% organic cotton in parts of its collection – in collaboration with Brands-Fashion, a pioneer in fair and sustainable textile production.
From organic cotton to delivery, the company monitors every step of the process and ensures fair working conditions throughout the supply chain. The textiles are GOTS-certified – an internationally recognised seal for social and ecological standards in all production phases.
In addition, the cotton comes from Fairtrade cultivation – for fair trade, fair prices and better conditions for producers. This is in line with the values that VfB stands for.
Grüner Knopf
Since 2019, selected GOTS-certified products from VfB Stuttgart have also carried the state-issued Grüner Knopf seal. This seal stands for independent testing of the entire supply chain – from the company to the product.
Among other things, human rights, social standards, environmental responsibility and 26 specific requirements for fair and environmentally friendly textile production are tested.
VfB is thus sending a clear signal for credible sustainability.
GRS
VfB Stuttgart uses the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) to accurately record the proportion of recycled materials and make the supply chain transparent. The standard guarantees origin, processing and social and environmental responsibility. GRS-certified products consist of at least 50% recycled material – verified from recycling to delivery.
C2C
Cradle to Cradle CertifiedTM products are assessed on material health, reuse, use of renewable energy, CO2 and water consumption, and social fairness. Cradle to Cradle CertifiedTM is a certification mark licensed by the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.
FTTS
Learn more Since 2017, Brands Fashion has been working step by step to certify its entire supply chain according to the Fairtrade Textile Standard and to implement the standard's requirements. The goals of the Fairtrade Textile Standard are to implement living wages, empower workers and improve workplace safety.
In addition, all of the cotton in this product is grown by Fairtrade producers, certified according to the Fairtrade Cotton Standard and traded accordingly.
VfB Tütle
Local, sustainable, practical: the VfB bag is the environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags – made from 100% recycled paper, produced in a CO₂-neutral process and reusable.
It is rainproof, printed sparingly with water-based inks and can be used as a bio-waste bag at the end of its life.
Manufactured by regional VfB partner Apomore – for short transport distances and local value creation. Every Tütle supports VfBfairplay. A bag with attitude.
Sustainability Study
In the study by cum ratione, we at VfB Stuttgart are ranked among the most sustainable professional clubs. Particular emphasis is placed on our wide range of fairly produced clothing with recognised seals of approval. Through projects such as ‘From the Field to the Fan Shop’ and certified collections, we are sending a clear signal for social and ecological responsibility in sport.
Insert link: Clubs in the ranking – how sustainable are their fan shops? – Cum Ratione
GoGreen
At VfB, sustainability does not end with the product – it extends to shipping. Orders placed in the online shop are shipped climate-neutrally with DHL GoGreen.
Emissions are calculated, offset and independently verified in accordance with international standards. No extra costs, maximum impact – for less CO₂ and more responsibility.
Football meets fairness – VfB Stuttgart travels to India for sustainable cotton
How are fair fan merchandise items produced? Representatives of VfB Stuttgart explored this question together with partners from the Bundesliga, Brands Fashion, Fairtrade Germany and GIZ during a trip to India. The aim was to gain insights into the origins of textile production and the ‘From Field to Fan Shop’ project, which was launched in 2022 to drive change in the textile industry.
In phase 1, 450 small farmers were supported in switching to organic cotton cultivation. Many of the resulting fairly produced merchandise items have been available in German fan shops since mid-2023.
But the project's impact extends far beyond cotton. Around 1,000 children and young people have already been reached through accompanying sports and education programmes. Now phase 2 is starting – with ambitious goals:
The focus is on:
- Another 500 farmers are to switch to organic farming.
- Income security through data collection and targeted measures.
- Strengthening women's rights and social participation.
- Better market access and ecological impact measurement.
At the same time, the sports programme is being expanded to over 2,000 children and young people throughout Gujarat. Cooperation with schools, parents, local authorities and sports associations is intended to ensure long-term impact.
