Operators of UBS Arena, home of the New York Islanders, have announced that the venue not only produces zero waste and is carbon neutral, but also soon will make its own renewable energy.
According to CBS New York, the LEED certified UBS Arena is doing everything it can to leave no trace.
"All the hot dogs, all the extra French fries get sorted to compost. All of our materials, vessels that your hot dog would come, all of that is recyclable, so that gets sorted. It's not going into the landfill," said Kim Stone, president of UBS Arena.
Stone said the arena recycles oil, leftover food is donated, and water is conserved.
"The lowest possible water consumption. We have waterless urinals, low-flush toilets," Stone said, adding that all energy consumed is carbon neutral.
"Right now, they're purchasing renewable energy credits to offset their direct emissions. They are buying clean energy, but they are also going to put clean energy on to their own site," League of Conservation voter Julie Tighe said.
CBS reports that this will likely happen in the form of a solar array.
"We have a goal that by the end of 2024 we will actually be installing on-site renewable energy," said Kristen Fulmer, head of sustainability for the Oak View Group.
Climate activists have lauded UBS' commitment to renewable energy.
"We need more corporations and more businesses that take the issue of sustainability and incorporate it into their business practices, just like they incorporate making money. It's that important," said Adrienne Esposito, of the Citizens Campaign for the Environment.
"A lot of people talk about acting on climate change. They're not just putting in a plan, they're actually executing that plan," Tighe added.
"Somebody has to lead the way. Somebody has to show others what is possible and how easy it can be. We want others to learn from us," Stone added.
Including some of the arena's 1 million attendees each year.
UBS Arena also announced Tuesday it's planning 15 sustainability-focused events in the next two years.
