The upcoming Super Bowl event at Allegiant Stadium, attended by the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs, is set to catch the nation’s attention not only for the game but for its commitment to renewable energy. This showcase of sustainable power in a top sporting event signifies a leap towards a greener future, brought into focus by the Las Vegas Raiders with pride and enthusiasm.
Renewable Energy Embraced by the Sports Industry
The connection between renewable energy and sports is growing stronger with time. In the past, venues such as the solar-powered Pocono Raceway and the Philadelphia Eagles’ Lincoln Financial Field with its wind turbines have made headlines. Fast forward to today, and renewable energy is receiving even more attention with electric vehicle ads during major sporting events, proving that eco-friendly practices are gaining traction in the sports domain.
Amidst the divided political landscape on the subject of clean energy, some public officials have actively opposed the integration of renewable energy through legislative means, particularly challenging ESG investment. Nonetheless, the bold step by America’s most beloved sport—football—to embrace renewable energy strategies, sends out a strong message both in terms of politics and sustainability.
Sustainable Practices at the Super Bowl
At this year’s Super Bowl, no groundbreaking technology is being unveiled. Instead, the focus is on existing sustainable technologies that can make a significant difference right now. NZero, a sustainability analyst firm, has partnered with the Raiders and Allegiant Stadium to present a vision where environmental health and business excellence coexist.
Through a 25-year power purchase agreement with NV Energy initiated in 2023, and aiming at a ‘carbon free’ label, the effort promises a completely renewable and carbon-free Super Bowl. Real-time data attests that the Super Bowl LVIII will be historically powered by 100% renewable energy—and that’s a significant win for the environment.
The Rockies: Speeding Towards Carbon Reduction
The carbon footprint of the Las Vegas Raiders was already on a downward trend before their collaboration with NV Energy, with a 15% reduction achieved in 2022. Since entering their carbon-free agreement, numbers have become even more impressive, showing a 30% reduction in 2023, and an anticipated 68% drop in the following year—without any modifications to their direct or indirect emissions (Scope 1 & 2).
Acknowledging the journey towards sustainability, Las Vegas Raiders President Sandra Douglass Morgan highlights the significance of data in understanding and minimizing carbon emissions. This initiative is not a solo effort, but is fueled by the commitment of partners, fans, and local communities working together to make sustainable sports a reality.
Confronting the Aviation Emissions Dilemma
While private jets might seem to contradict these sustainable efforts, they only form a small percentage of the total greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The US EPA has reported that cars and light-duty trucks are the primary culprits, with emissions skyrocketing by 45% from 1990 to 2021. Nevertheless, hope is on the horizon with the development of alternative aviation fuels and electric aircraft poised to change the game in the near future.
Nevada may not have the consistent wind resources, but its plentiful solar capacity and geothermal plants provide a strong foundation for renewable energy practices. Both the 49ers and Chiefs hail from states with varying clean power landscapes, with California leading the charge and Missouri progressing in its renewable journey, spurred by external investment and the potential of rural cooperatives.
The message is clear: sustainability in sports is not just feasible; it’s already happening. The spotlight on Allegiant Stadium’s carbon-neutral Super Bowl is a testament to the powerful role that sports can play in promoting environmental stewardship.
