Courtesy Hamilton Spectator:The Grey Cup is going green.

CFL commissioner Mark Cohon unveiled the league’s Green Drive yesterday, an initiative aimed at minimizing the Grey Cup’s impact on the environment. The plan will focus on three major areas: the use of renewable, clean energy, waste management and carbon offsetting.

“I strongly believe the CFL and our member clubs play a leadership role on important issues within our communities and, really, across the country,” Cohon said during a conference call. “One of the great things about my job is I get to talk to fans across the country, and especially young fans, and one of the issues they’ve identified for me is they collectively seem to be concerned about the environment.

“Given that the Grey Cup is our country’s single largest sporting event, we decided to listen to our young fans and said that we could be a key influence in helping change behaviour towards the environment.”

Cohon also practises what he preaches, driving a hybrid vehicle.

The West and East Division champions will meet in the Grey Cup on Nov. 25 at Rogers Centre. Cohon said projections are that 300,000 people will visit Toronto during Grey Cup week.

The CFL determined through an environmental audit the total carbon dioxide emissions associated with its championship game’s energy use, paper and team air travel. The league will balance it out through reforestation efforts in B.C.

The league will also partner with Bullfrog Power to provide clean energy during the festivities and team up with recycling firm Turtle Island to provide waste management and recycling services throughout Grey Cup week.