Manchester City Football Club has reached a major sustainability milestone, with all 16 training pitches at the City Football Academy now irrigated exclusively using harvested rainwater. The transition removes reliance on external water supplies, conserves local resources, and significantly reduces the Club’s environmental footprint.
Since adopting the system in July 2023, the Club has saved around 80 million litres of clean water—equivalent to more than 32 Olympic-sized swimming pools or enough drinking water to hydrate a stadium of fans for an entire season.
This achievement has been made possible through investment in advanced rainwater harvesting and smart water management technologies. During peak summer conditions, a single natural grass pitch can require over 23,000 litres of water each day.
Working in partnership with global water technology company Xylem, Manchester City has redesigned the way rainwater is collected, treated, and reused onsite. Xylem’s treatment and pumping systems supply high-quality water for irrigation, ensuring resilient pitch conditions while reducing the Club’s pressure on local water supplies.
Digital innovation to enhance water efficiency
Earlier this year, Manchester City implemented Xylem Vue, a digital water platform that uses smart sensors, connected meters and real-time analytics to monitor performance and maximise efficiency across the site.
To raise awareness of water scarcity and inspire wider action, the Club and Xylem have also launched the “Every Drop Counts” campaign. Featuring first-team players John Stones, Rico Lewis and Club captain Bernardo Silva, the campaign celebrates Manchester’s relationship with rainfall and highlights how innovation can protect water resources for future generations.
The campaign will run throughout the 2025–26 season, encouraging fans and communities to take part in water-saving efforts and showcasing the broader role sport can play in sustainability leadership.
Addressing future water challenges
According to the UK Climate Change Risk Assessment, rising demand and the impacts of climate change could create severe water shortages by mid-century, with several regions already experiencing water stress. By adopting rainwater harvesting and intelligent water management at scale, Manchester City is contributing to long-term water resilience for both the Club and the wider community.
Pete Bradshaw, Director of Sustainability at Manchester City, said:
“Achieving full rainwater self-sufficiency for pitch irrigation at our training facilities is a landmark moment for Manchester City. Manchester’s rain is part of our heritage, and now, through our partnership with Xylem, it continues to support our future. This initiative shows what is possible when innovation is paired with purpose.”
Rocio Echeverria, SVP and General Manager, MCS – Water Division at Xylem, added:
“Manchester City is leading by example, demonstrating how reimagining water management can support both sport and cities. This level of digital innovation provides a model for urban resilience around the world.”
The project strengthens local water security in Manchester, reduces demand on municipal supplies, and sets a new benchmark for environmental responsibility within the sports sector.
For further information, visit everydropcounts.com.
