Alexéi Rojas, the former Arsenal goalkeeper, is making waves both on and off the pitch with his unwavering commitment to sustainability. In an exclusive interview, Rojas reveals how his passion for the environment led him to challenge the status quo at one of England's biggest football clubs.
From Goalkeeper to Green Advocate
Rojas, who describes himself as "a bit of an outlier," has always embraced his uniqueness. "I like being different," he says. That difference was evident early on when he chose to cycle to Arsenal's Hale End training ground instead of accepting lifts from his parents. But his environmental awakening came from his mother, who works in wind energy.
"I would visit her office to learn more about renewables and their potential," Rojas recalls. That exposure ignited a passion that he brought to the academy. At just 15, he stood in front of his peers and staff to discuss sustainability. "The staff realised this is something I'm really passionate about," he says. "I jumped at the opportunity. I said: 'We need to fix this.'"
Transforming Arsenal's Training Ground
Rojas didn't just talk; he took action. He identified key areas for improvement at the training ground:
- Recycling bins: There were none, so he pushed for their introduction.
- Plastic usage: He advocated for reusable items and compostable packaging.
- Energy waste: Lights were left on constantly, so he called for better energy management.
His efforts didn't go unnoticed. Teammates quickly followed suit, switching to reusable bottles. "It is really important that clubs are actively pushing what they preach," Rojas emphasises.

The Impact of Individual Action
Rojas's story is a testament to how one person's passion can spark change. By speaking up, he influenced not only his teammates but also the club's infrastructure. His actions align with a growing movement in sports to address the climate crisis.
| Initiative | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Recycling bins | None | Introduced |
| Plastic usage | High | Reduced via reusables |
| Energy waste | Lights always on | Improved management |
Key Takeaways
- Individual passion can drive institutional change.
- Simple swaps like reusable bottles make a difference.
- Sports clubs have a responsibility to promote sustainability.
FAQ
Who is Alexéi Rojas?
Alexéi Rojas is a former Arsenal goalkeeper known for his commitment to sustainability and his efforts to make the club more environmentally friendly.
What changes did Rojas implement at Arsenal?
He introduced recycling bins, reduced plastic usage by promoting reusables, and addressed energy waste by turning off unnecessary lights.
Why is sustainability important in sports?
Sports clubs have a large platform and can influence millions of fans. By adopting sustainable practices, they can lead by example and inspire positive environmental action.
Rojas's journey shows that no action is too small. Whether it's cycling to training or pushing for recycling bins, every effort counts. As he continues to inspire others, his story reminds us that we all have a role to play in protecting our planet.