In an eco-conscious shift that's setting a new bar for sports venues, Seattle's Lumen Field has been awarded the TRUE Gold Certification for its zero-waste sustainability efforts. The certification, which was presented during the Seahawks versus Vikings game on Nov. 30, is a nod to the venue's successful strategies in waste diversion, as Lumen Field managed to keep a staggering 93% of its waste out of landfills. That's over 6 million pounds of waste diverted, according to BVM Sports. The TRUE Gold Certification, doled out by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), was previously teased with a precertification last December and represents significant progress for the venue, which in 2006, had a diversion rate of merely 4.66%.
"We are thrilled to demonstrate our continued commitment to the environment and being a zero-waste venue through this achievement," Zach Hensley, Seahawks vice president of operations and general manager of Lumen Field, told Seahawks.com. Hensley's statement showcases the venue's ongoing effort to lead as a globally sustainable practice adherent. Key to their success was the integration of MRFi sorting technology which has efficiently to reduce waste sorting time from five days post-event to a swift 36 hours.
The GBCI's TRUE certification signifies a venue's leadership in resource management and waste reduction, and Lumen Field's accomplishment hasn't gone unnoticed. Peter Templeton, president and CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council and GBCI, praised Lumen Field's achievement, stating, "Attaining a 93% waste diversion rate while reducing waste sorting time by 70% is a true sign of the team’s commitment and leadership," as reported by KOMO News. Additionally, the venue has been recognized with the 2024 Green Sports Alliance Energy Player Award and the 2025 Green Sports Alliance Waste Champion Award, highlighting its comprehensive sustainability efforts.
Looking forward, Lumen Field serves as an influential example for others to potentially follow suit in enhancing their sustainability initiatives. The venue's operations continue to attract large crowds, with more than 300 events annually and over 2 million attendees. Moreover, Lumen Field is slated to host six international soccer matches as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further cementing its status as a premier, eco-conscious sports and entertainment hub.
