At-a-Glance:
Major League Baseball has made some major strides in adapting to important world changes, especially when it comes to the environment. Most teams in the league have already made efforts to put forth more sustainable practices on and off the field. Some stadiums are even starting to harness the power of renewable energy. To learn more, read “Harnessing renewable power in baseball stadiums.”
Key Takeaways:
- In 2017, the U.S. Department of Energy released Taking the Field, a report that looked at sports stadiums all across the country and how they were responding to everything from renewable energy sources to water waste.
- Busch Stadium: Switched to compact fluorescent lights, energy-efficient heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
- Safeco Field: In 2014, the Seattle Mariners became the first team in the league to play a game under LED lights, which reduces energy usage by 784,000-kilowatt-hours each season.
- Citi Field: Citi Field is home to the Mets. They installed a green roof on their stadium to cut down on energy use and water waste.
- AT&T Park: This home of the San Francisco Giants was the first MLB ballpark to have its own solar panel system installed in 2007. It’s enough to fully power their scoreboard for an entire season.
Path to 100% Perspective:
This article offers additional opportunities for improvement such as an expansion of solar energy at MLB stadiums, evaluating green travel solutions and implementing recycling programs for each stadium. The Seattle Mariners received the “Green Glove” award in 2017 for having the best recycling program in the league, with an 85% annual recycling rate. Competitive spirit could fan the flame that spreads clean energy throughout the MLB and inspires fans all at the same time.
Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash