Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the future home of the Atlanta Falcons NFL American football franchise, has been recognised by the US Office of Science and Technology Policy as one of 19 sports properties leading the industry through new commitments to address climate change through sports.
Representatives of the arena, which will also house Major League Soccer expansion franchise Atlanta United, last week attended the White House, where President Barack Obama endorsed the venue’s efforts.
Green Sports Alliance, which leverages the cultural and market influence of sports to promote healthy, sustainable communities, was also invited. Mercedes-Benz Stadium general manager Scott Jenkins is the co-founder of Green Sports Alliance.
Jenkins said: “It was an honour to represent the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium and be included in the President’s release recognising the important work being done by the sports industry to protect our environment and harness the cultural influence of sport to move us toward a healthier and more prosperous future.”
Mercedes-Benz Stadium will feature 4,000 solar panels generating 1.6 million kWh per year, while 48 electric vehicle charging plugs powered by the sun will also be fitted.
In addition, the 70,000-seat stadium, which is due to open in time for the 2017 NFL season, will feature energy-efficient LED lighting and mechanical systems that reduce energy use by 29 per cent, water-efficient plumbing systems that reduce water use by 47 per cent, and a rainwater capture and reuse system that will hold 680,000 gallons for use in the venue’s cooling towers and landscaping.
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