GreenDrop® is MVP at Reuse Symposium
Consumers embrace, and support sustainable initiatives
The Green Sports Alliance (GSA) has made an impactful step forward with the release of the "Reuse Playbook" designed specifically for sports and entertainment venues. This comprehensive guide serves as a vital resource for venue operators, providing practical tools and insights to adopt a reusable system for food and beverage service ware.
Roger McClendon, Executive Director of GSA, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, highlighting that embracing reuse not only benefits fans but also supports local communities and future generations.
The year 2023 marked a significant milestone for reuse initiatives, with noteworthy examples such as the Portland Trail Blazers pioneering a reusable cup system for their entire season and Live Nation adopting similar systems across its Atlanta venues. Other venues like CPKC Stadium, L.A. Memorial Coliseum, and Crypto.com Arena have followed suit, showcasing a growing trend in the sports industry.
With over 350 million fans generating more than 3 billion single-use items annually, sports venues are in a prime position to lead the charge toward sustainability. The Playbook aims to make reuse a standard consideration for venues and concessionaires right from the start, paving the way for a more environmentally friendly future.
The uniquely effective GreenDrop Recycling Station was designed through the efforts of the Portland Trail Blazer Head Office to reduce their environmental footprint while minimizing expenses and being fiscally responsible through sustainable operations. Extensive research of public interaction to various recycling configurations led to the development of an ADA conforming unit made of recycled plastic which informs guests to divert compostable and recyclable items away from local landfills.
Cheers to Reuse! In 2022-23, the Moda Center piloted its reuse program in premium areas. The following year, their team rolled out the first arena-wide reuse program in the United States. Left: Sample items in the Reuse Serviceware line.
(Photos provided by Green Sports Alliance & Pacific Cascade Corporation/GreenDrop)
Overall, the GreenDrop Recycling Station represents a forward-thinking approach to waste management in sports and entertainment venues. GreenDrop and GSA Reuse Playbook is aligning with broader environmental goals while also being cost-effective. This initiative could serve as a model for other organizations looking to enhance their sustainability efforts.
Reuse Symposium
March 18th, 2025
Portland, OR at the Rose Quarter at the Moda Center
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