Sports facilities, such as stadiums and arenas, often host high-energy events that are attended by thousands of people. They require high maintenance and proper management to ensure the safety of each spectator. However, stadiums have traditionally been negligent about their environmental obligations. They use a lot of energy and resources, be it in the form of electrical power or water supply.
Nowadays, thankfully, developers are becoming more creative and environment-conscious with their projects. Below are new or repurposed stadiums considered to be some of the planet’s most eco-friendly:
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| Image source: wikipedia.org |
Estadio Nacional de Brasilia Mane Garrincha
Located in Brazil, this stadium has solar panels that supply all its energy needs, rainwater catchments to supply water to bathrooms and other facilities, and photo catalytic membrane that breaks down the level of pollution. The result is the world’s first net zero (carbon footprint) stadium. Mané Garrincha was one of the venues used during the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
National stadium of Taiwan
There are many “national stadiums” in the world but this one found in Taiwan could be the most environmentally innovative of all. This stadium has plenty of installed solar power panels arranged in a way that resembles a dragon’s scales. More than two-thirds of the structure’s power needs come from these solar panels that consist of woven grid of pipes wrapped around the crowd.
TFC Bank Stadium
The TFC Bank stadium in Minneapolis is one of the most eco friendly stadiums in the U.S. It was built with mostly recycled steel and is served by the light transit that connects it with other Minneapolis venues.
Highbury Square
While no longer used as a sporting venue, Highbury Square is reputed for its state-of-the-art architecture and landscaping. After Arsenal FC moved to their new home stadium, the now-residential complex underwent major redevelopment. Today, it features well-landscaped gardens, large green spaces, and Art Deco apartments.
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| Image source: byrnegroup.co.uk |
William B. Lauder here, designer and architect based in New York City. For more articles on eco-friendly architectural projects, subscribe to my other blog.
