Overview of Climate Pledge Arena
Climate Pledge Arena, located in Seattle, Washington, is a premier sports and entertainment venue that serves as the home for the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and the WNBA’s Seattle Storm. This arena is significant as it is recognized as the world’s first net-zero carbon arena, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.
Originally known as KeyArena, it underwent a substantial $1.15 billion renovation to reopen in 2021. This transformation was largely driven by Amazon’s acquisition of the naming rights, aligning with its broader environmental goals and commitment to promote sustainability.
Ownership of Climate Pledge Arena
Seattle Arena Company
Climate Pledge Arena is owned and operated by the Seattle Arena Company (ArenaCo), a private entity primarily led by the Oak View Group (OVG). OVG is a global venue development and management company founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff. They are instrumental in both the renovation of the arena and its sustainability initiatives.
Partnership with Amazon
In 2020, Amazon purchased the naming rights to the arena, renaming it Climate Pledge Arena to reflect its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 through The Climate Pledge initiative. While Amazon does not own the arena itself, its involvement significantly influences the arena’s branding and sustainability mission.
City of Seattle
The arena is situated on publicly owned land within Seattle Center. The renovation was made possible through a public-private partnership between the City of Seattle and OVG. The city retains ownership of the land, while Seattle Arena Company holds a long-term lease for operation and management.
Key Stakeholders and Partners
Seattle Kraken and NHL
The Seattle Kraken, an NHL expansion team, is owned by David Bonderman along with a group of minority investors. As the primary tenant, their presence is crucial for the arena’s operations and financial stability.
Seattle Storm and WNBA
The Seattle Storm, one of the leading teams in the WNBA, is owned by an investment group led by Force 10 Hoops LLC. They have a long-term lease agreement with Climate Pledge Arena, solidifying their role in its sports programming.
Sustainability Initiatives at Climate Pledge Arena
Renewable Energy and Net-Zero Carbon
Climate Pledge Arena operates entirely on renewable electricity sourced from solar panels and other green energy initiatives. It aims to achieve zero waste by eliminating single-use plastics and committing to comprehensive carbon offsetting practices.
Water Conservation and Local Food Sourcing
The arena employs innovative water conservation strategies, including a rainwater collection system that produces ice for hockey games. Additionally, it focuses on sourcing food locally to support sustainable agricultural practices.
Impact of Climate Pledge Arena on the Community
Economic Impact
The renovation and operation of Climate Pledge Arena have generated thousands of jobs in Seattle, bolstering local economic growth. It also attracts major events that enhance tourism in the region.
Environmental Leadership
By setting a high standard for sustainability in sports venues globally, Climate Pledge Arena serves as a model for integrating environmental responsibility into large-scale operations. Its initiatives inspire local community engagement around climate change issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who owns Climate Pledge Arena?
– It is owned by the Seattle Arena Company (ArenaCo), primarily led by Oak View Group (OVG), with land ownership retained by the City of Seattle.
2. Does Amazon own Climate Pledge Arena?
– No, Amazon holds only the naming rights but plays a significant role in promoting sustainability initiatives associated with the arena.
3. How is Climate Pledge Arena sustainable?
– The arena utilizes 100% renewable energy, aims for zero waste through compostable materials, and has eliminated single-use plastics from its operations.
4. Who are the main sports teams at Climate Pledge Arena?
– The primary tenants are the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and the WNBA’s Seattle Storm.
5. How did Climate Pledge Arena get its name?
– It was named after Amazon’s Climate Pledge initiative to promote net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Conclusion
Climate Pledge Arena exemplifies innovative ownership structures that combine public interests with private enterprise to champion sustainability in sports and entertainment. With OVG at the helm and significant backing from Amazon and local government partnerships, it stands as a global leader in environmental responsibility within its sector.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.