09-08-2025
Inside the Stadium That’s Redefining Sustainability in Sports
Dominic Manzo, 4ocean Content Producer
In this episode of Can Business Save the Planet, 4ocean co-founder Alex Schulze sits down with Dawn Brown, Sr. Manager of Stadium Tours, Education Programs, and Sustainability at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, to explore how one of the world’s most iconic sports venues is setting a new standard for environmental leadership.
From the ground up, Mercedes-Benz Stadium was built with sustainability in mind. It’s LEED Platinum certified, diverts over 90% of its waste from landfills, and includes a massive stormwater system that captures nearly 2 million gallons of water for reuse. The result is cleaner communities, reduced flood risk, and smarter water conservation.
The stadium also features over 4,000 solar panels, energy-efficient systems, and fan experiences designed to encourage sustainable choices. They’ve replaced single-use plastics with compostables and aluminum, partnered with local recyclers like CHaRM and Nexus Circular, and created a green team that spans every department.
One of the most innovative efforts? An on-site urban garden nourished with compost generated from game day waste. It’s a closed-loop system that shows fans exactly how small choices create big impact.
Dawn emphasizes that sustainability at Mercedes-Benz Stadium isn’t just a goal. It’s a culture. From top-level executives to part-time game day staff, everyone plays a part—and fans are engaged at every step.
Watch the full podcast to hear how Mercedes-Benz Stadium is proving that world-class entertainment and world-class sustainability can go hand in hand.
