The Kansas City Chiefs announced GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium has received Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) v4.1 Gold certification for existing buildings from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), further cementing the NFL team’s commitment to sustainability.
The LEED v4.1 for existing buildings tracks data over a 12-month period, measuring metrics related to energy, water, waste, staff transit, and indoor air quality, providing an outline for venue owners and operators to remain environmentally responsible and use resources efficiently. LEED buildings save money, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and create healthier working conditions.
“GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium is thrilled to be awarded LEED certification, and I am proud of the work by our staff who remain committed to our sustainability and efficiency efforts,” said Chiefs Vice President of Stadium Operations and Facilities Brandon Hamilton. “It is an incredible achievement to transform a venue of this age, style, and complexity and have it remain energy efficient and environmentally friendly for fans who attend any of our events.”
During the review period, GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium is estimated to have reduced energy operational costs by 10%, water usage by 14%, and more than quadrupled its diversion through implementation of on-site composting and on-site sorting of recyclables. Additionally, GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium relied on sustainable practices in staff commuting through a combination of carpooling, low-emission and electric vehicles, buses, and other carbon-friendly solutions, resulting in transit reduction.
The driving force behind the stadium’s LEED Gold certification is the Chiefs Extra Yard for the Environment platform. The program exists to inspire and educate fans on sustainable practices both at the venue and at home. Since its inception 15 years ago, the initiative has worked to increase recycling and composting efforts, nearing 90% waste diversion. Since 2011, the Chiefs have diverted more than 1,100 tons of trash from landfills, leading the Kansas City region by example and using sports as a catalyst for community-wide environmental action.
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