Tim Leiweke, co-founder of Oak View Group, has been a transformative figure in Seattle’s sports scene. Not only did he bring coach Pete Carroll to the Seahawks and secure the Sounders franchise, but he also spearheaded a $1.15 billion revamp of Climate Pledge Arena. A feat that has positioned the arena as a leading figure in the global green sports movement.
Climate Pledge Arena has the distinct honor of being the world’s first sports venue to receive Zero Carbon Certification from the International Future Living Institute (IFLI). This prestigious recognition was earned by entirely eliminating fossil fuels and switching to renewable energy sources.
Looking ahead, Climate Pledge Arena has even bolder plans. By 2025, the arena aims to power all its operations exclusively through self-produced solar and wind energy. This initiative will be carried out as part of Seattle City Light’s Renewable Plus program.
Despite the significance of the zero-carbon certification, it has largely flown under the radar of fans, whose focus remains on the performance of the Seattle Kraken, the NHL team that calls Climate Pledge Arena home.
However, the arena’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond renewable energy. Several other measures have been introduced to further reduce the facility’s environmental impact. For instance, every game ticket includes free public transit, single-use plastics have been eliminated, and the arena sources 100% of its energy from renewable sources.
The criteria for the Zero Carbon Certification awarded by ILFI are stringent. All operational energy use must be offset by new on- or off-site renewable energy. Additionally, all carbon emissions associated with construction and materials must be disclosed and offset.
In keeping with these requirements, Climate Pledge Arena, which also hosts the WNBA’s Seattle Storm, has converted all natural gas uses to electric. This includes the building heating system, the Zamboni ice resurfacer, and the dehumidification system.
Moreover, the arena has gone above and beyond in its pursuit of energy efficiency. The facility has purchased and retired more than 100,000 MW hours of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and installed solar panels on the roof of the atrium and the adjacent parking garage to meet its renewable energy requirements.
Under the guidance of Tim Leiweke and the Oak View Group, Climate Pledge Arena stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when the world of sports aligns its goals with the pressing need for sustainability and renewable energy.
