MetLife Stadium, in partnership with the FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee, has achieved LEED v4.1 Gold certification for Existing Buildings from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The special designation reinforces the stadium and region’s long-term commitment to sustainability ahead of hosting eight matches, including the Final, in this year’s FIFA Men’s World Cup.
Located in East Rutherford, N.J., MetLife Stadium is the home of the New York Giants and New York Jets and has the largest seating capacity in the NFL at 82,500. The green building certification marks a major milestone for one of the world’s busiest sports and entertainment venues as it prepares to welcome millions of soccer fans from around the globe this summer.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is among the world’s most widely recognized green building rating systems and evaluates venues on operational performance across energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable transportation practices.
“As one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the United States, MetLife Stadium recognizes our responsibility to operate sustainably,” said Ron VanDeVeen, stadium president and CEO.
MetLife Stadium earned Gold certification following a 12-month performance review and implementation of enhanced sustainability initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact while improving the fan and employee experience.
“Hosting the World Cup is about more than just the excitement of matches; it’s about the legacy we leave behind for our communities and future generations,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee. “Achieving LEED Gold certification demonstrates this commitment to making MetLife Stadium a model for sustainable large-scale events and creating a world-class experience that reflects the values of our region.”
During the certification review period, MetLife Stadium reinforced existing initiatives focused on:
- Energy conservation through on-site solar generation, use of LED and motion sensor lighting, and use of hybrid and electric vehicles.
- Material management through food waste and materials diversion and donation.
- A comprehensive recycling program with aluminum, PET, and cardboard baling, as well as electronic and universal waste recycling.
- Annual staff training and awareness events designed to reinforce universal green messaging and ensure adherence to the stadium’s sustainable policies.
MetLife Stadium was recently featured in the USGBC’s Sustainable Stadiums Interactive Map, a new tool highlighting some of the greenest sports venues in North America.
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