Ever since its foundation in 1909, Borussia Dortmund has been a constant presence in the city of Dortmund and the surrounding region. Nowadays, the club has won a place in the hearts of football fans the world over. Football’s power to unite and inspire is one that transcends borders. Football is far more than just a game; everyone involved in the sport - be it fans, club members or wider society - all bear a special responsibility.

Nowadays, it is not just football fans who recognise BVB for their success on the pitch; the club is increasingly renowned for its social engagement and exemplary conduct. Society today places far-reaching demands on companies, organisations, products and brands, and Borussia Dortmund's fans are no exception. The club has sought to take on social responsibility for many decades, and now BVB is increasingly turning its focus towards the environment.

On the occasion of today’s publication of the third BVB Sustainability Report, CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke gave the following statement: ''Borussia Dortmund is devoting itself more than ever before to sustainability. We see it as our unmistakable duty to harness the popularity of our club in order to engage the public with topics of societal importance. Responsible and sustainable corporate management is the most effective way of ensuring long-term success in business. Borussia Dortmund is taking on responsibility!''

The new BVB Sustainability Report outlines the development of the club’s engagement towards sustainability as well as the structured approach taken throughout the 2018/19 season. The most important topics have been divided into six thematic areas. Sporting success and youth development have been taken into account, as have fans, members and social engagement. Economic activity and environmental responsibility are to be found alongside employee issues and aspects of product responsibility.

BVB is sending out a strong message. The donation of one million euros made to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem attracted a great deal of public interest. This was a natural step to take after BVB's decade-long engagement against all forms of discrimination and anti-Semitism.

Borussia Dortmund began to structure its sustainable development back in 2017, helped by an interdepartmental working group as well as by fans and various partners. Relevant topics were defined, goals set and measurable key figures outlined. Since then, the learning curve has been steep. The club has come to terms with its own weaknesses, heralded important changes and contributed to the public conversation on important social issues. One notable example of this was the club’s widely-appreciated return to a reusable cup system within its stadium. In August 2019, in order to further consolidate this work, the club set up a new Corporate Responsibility department, which means that BVB’s commitment to sustainability is now being driven forward in a targeted manner.

Click here for the 2018/19 BVB Sustainability Report