Germany - which hosts the next World Cup, in 2006 - is working to make it as eco-friendly as possible, strictly limiting its use of chemicals, energy and other resources, and its production of emissions and waste.

It will monitor the chemicals used to treat pitches, limit packaging on products sold during matches and insist on maximum recycling of rubbish. Stadiums are to be modified to conserve heat, and park-and-ride schemes will limit traffic and pollution. Much of the energy will come from renewable sources, and water supplies will be conserved and preserved. Every business involved will be required to conform to the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA)'s environmental guidelines.

And as the event will still cause an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, measures to offset them will continue in Germany long after the final whistle.