Climate Pledge Arena, located in Seattle’s Uptown neighborhood on the Seattle Center campus, is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovative design. As the world’s first Zero Carbon Certified arena, it hosts a variety of events, including sports, concerts, and community gatherings.
History and Transformation:
Originally known as KeyArena, the venue underwent a significant renovation that concluded in October 2021. The redevelopment preserved the iconic roof while constructing a new arena beneath it, resulting in a state-of-the-art facility that honors its historical significance.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Climate Pledge Arena has implemented several eco-friendly measures, including:
- Achieving Zero Carbon Certification from the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), ensuring net-zero carbon emissions in daily operations and offsetting construction-related emissions.
- Utilizing rainwater for the hockey ice surface.
- Sourcing at least 75% of food served from local producers.
- Diverting 95% of waste from landfills.
- Offering free public transit passes to event attendees to encourage sustainable transportation.
Recent and Upcoming Events:
The arena continues to host a diverse array of events. Notably, it has been selected as a venue for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, with games scheduled for March 2025. This event underscores Seattle’s role in major sports tournaments and highlights the arena’s versatility.
Sports Teams:
Climate Pledge Arena serves as the home for the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and the WNBA’s Seattle Storm. Both teams contribute to the city’s vibrant sports culture and benefit from the arena’s modern facilities and sustainable practices.
Looking Ahead:
As Seattle continues to grow as a sports and entertainment hub, discussions about expanding professional sports offerings, including the potential return of an NBA team, are ongoing. The sale of the Boston Celtics for $6.1 billion has fueled speculation about future NBA expansion, with Seattle being a prime candidate for a new franchise.
For more information on upcoming events and the latest news, you can visit Climate Pledge Arena’s official website.