US Open green initiative expands its efforts
August 21, 2013
FLUSHING, N.Y. — The United States Tennis Association (USTA) today announced a further expansion of its greening efforts at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center during the US Open, which annually attracts more than 700,000 fans during the two weeks of the event. The US Open Green Initiative, aimed at making the US Open responsible for its ecological footprint and creating a sustainable future, has become a recognized leader in green efforts at sporting events. The USTA’s environmental program is continuously evolving and seeking innovative ways to reduce the impact the US Open has on the environment.
Since the inception of the initiative in 2008, the USTA has diverted more than 850 tons of waste through recycling and composting, saved more than 1,100 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, offset enough electricity to power 600 homes for one year, recycled almost 1.5 million plastic bottles, and entertained nearly 2 million fans who have arrived via mass transit. In 2012, the US Open’s Green Initiative diverted close to 50 percent of the waste from the landfill through recycling and composting, more than any other year in the past.
In 2012, the USTA joined the Green Sports Alliance, an organization of sports teams, venues and leagues aimed at enhancing environmental evolution of professional and collegiate sports. This year, the US Open will be a part of the third annual Green Sports Alliances Summit held in New York City August 26-28 bringing together more than 500 industry stakeholders to learn from leaders at the forefront of the sports greening movement. As part of the Summit, the US Open will be hosting Summit VIPs for a behind-the-scenes tour of the US Open’s work to lessen the event’s impact on the environment.
“The USTA’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact is an important endeavor and we are continually seeking ways to enhance our greening efforts,” said Gordon Smith, USTA Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer. ”The US Open’s comprehensive ecological program hopes to foster environmental progress and inspire fans to create a positive change.”
In collaboration with environmental consultant eco evolutions, llc as well as with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and the Green Sports Alliance, the USTA once again will contribute to a global effort to preserve the environment.
Green Initiatives at the 2013 US Open
New Initiatives for 2013