The OVO Hydro has become the first live entertainment venue in the world to receive a commended status for its Greener Arena accreditation, thanks to its plan to become net zero by 2030.
Awarded by A Greener Future (AGF), a non-profit dedicated to promoting sustainability in events and venues, Commended status recognises arenas that lead in sustainability efforts, showing clear improvements and strong engagement in reducing negative and enhancing positive environmental and social impacts.
The certification was achieved following a rigorous assessment involving detailed analysis of transport, energy and power, waste, water usage, local environment, CO2 and food and beverages.
Debbie McWilliams, managing director of strategy and people at the SEC said: “We take our environmental responsibility very seriously and are on an ambitious journey to achieve our net zero 2030 goal. Achieving Commended status for the OVO Hydro shows our plans are working and that our commitment to the sustainability of our business is a top priority.”
Lucy Scrase from AGF said: “The OVO Hydro has demonstrated a passionate drive to deliver a greener arena and a focus on improving practices going forwards. Robust company policies have been developed and successfully embedded into the culture of the business. All team members undertake training modules which include EDI training. The arena demonstrated positive engagement with the local community and is creating employment opportunities locally through universities and apprenticeship schemes.”
James Watts, head of sponsorship at OVO, headline sponsor of the Hydro said: “At OVO, we share this commitment, and together with the SEC, we’re creating a future where live entertainment can thrive while safeguarding the planet.”
