FC Porto Museum celebrates one of Europe’s most storied football clubs, Futebol Clube do Porto (FC Porto). Showcasing the club’s rich history and achievements, it gives visitors the opportunity to see an impressive collection of trophies – including two UEFA Champions League and two UEFA Europa League titles, two Intercontinental Cups and one UEFA Super Cup – that make FC Porto the most successful Portuguese club at the top international level. The Museum also features interactive exhibits and immersive displays that bring FC Porto’s history to life, taking visitors on a journey through the club’s past and offering a glimpse at its bright future.
The club’s home ground, Estádio do Dragão, is a modern and multipurpose top facility, incorporating features that prioritise energy efficiency and sustainability. Its “open to the city” architectural design allows for natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. An architectural marvel with a capacity of over 50,000, it regularly hosts major sporting events and concerts.
As two of Porto’s premier attractions, the museum and stadium are taking steps to ensure their operations meet the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility. With the support and guidance of IPDT’ – the Institute for Tourism Planning and Development – they have now taken a significant step on their sustainability journey by joining the EarthCheck Certified program.
Keeping a clean sheet
EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking and certification group for travel and tourism, has guided tourism organisations and destinations towards greater sustainability since 1987. With a membership that spans over 70 countries, including luxury hotels, tourism authorities, and government bodies, EarthCheck certification is recognised by travelers and trusted by leading destinations worldwide.
The EarthCheck Certified program can help attractions like the FC Porto Museum and Estádio do Dragão measure, monitor, and improve their sustainability practices. From energy and water efficiency to waste management and community engagement, EarthCheck’s criteria require that all certified members actively reduce their environmental footprint and contribute positively to their communities.
Stewart Moore, EarthCheck CEO and Founder, says that by joining the EarthCheck Certified program, FC Porto Museum and Estádio do Dragão are setting an inspiring example for sporting organisations and tourism operators alike.
“We are excited to welcome FC Porto Museum and Estádio do Dragão to the EarthCheck Certified program,” he says. “Their commitment to responsible tourism within the sports industry demonstrates how iconic attractions can lead the way in promoting sustainability. We look forward to supporting them as they work to preserve the unique experiences they offer, ensuring these attractions can be enjoyed by future generations.”
The rules of the game
EarthCheck Certified members are required to meet strict environmental, socio-cultural, and economic criteria, with regular independent audits ensuring their continued compliance and progress.
If members meet these requirements, they are awarded EarthCheck certification and use of the EarthCheck Certified logo to promote their achievement. Their certification level is upgraded the longer it’s maintained, eventually reaching EarthCheck Gold Certified status after five years, EarthCheck Platinum Certified status after ten years, and EarthCheck Master Certified status after fifteen years.
With EarthCheck’s support, Moore says these attractions will contribute to the city’s reputation as a forward-thinking and environmentally responsible destination, helping the club attract valuable partnerships and providing visitors with a richer, more sustainable experience.
“As they work towards certification, the museum and stadium are enhancing their role as stewards of responsible tourism,” he says. “Their journey with EarthCheck highlights the powerful impact that thoughtful, measurable action can have – on and off the field.”
