Going Green in the NBA: How the Lakers are Setting the Standard for Sustainable Sports
As one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world, the Los Angeles Lakers have always been at the forefront of innovation and progress. From their storied history on the court to their groundbreaking work off of it, the Lakers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. One area where the team has truly excelled in recent years is in their commitment to green technology.
In an era where climate change is a pressing issue, the Lakers have made it a priority to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability. From their state-of-the-art arena to their cutting-edge training facilities, the team has implemented a number of innovative solutions to help protect the environment.
One of the most notable examples of the Lakers’ commitment to green technology can be seen at the Staples Center, the team’s home arena. In 2020, the venue became the first in the world to receive the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) 20121 certification for sustainable event management.
To achieve this certification, the Staples Center implemented a number of green initiatives, such as diverting over 90% of waste from landfills and reducing energy usage by 25%. The arena also features a number of sustainable technologies, such as LED lighting and low-flow water fixtures.
The Lakers have also made significant strides in their training facilities. The UCLA Health Training Center, which serves as the team’s practice facility, is equipped with a number of energy-efficient features, such as solar panels and a rainwater capture system. The facility also uses sustainable building materials and has earned LEED Gold certification.
Beyond their own facilities, the Lakers have also been active in promoting green initiatives in the community. In 2021, the team partnered with the City of Los Angeles to launch the “Lakers GO Green” campaign, which encourages fans to adopt environmentally-friendly practices in their daily lives.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Lakers have demonstrated a strong commitment to green technology and sustainability. From their cutting-edge arena to their state-of-the-art training facilities, the team has implemented a number of innovative solutions to help protect the environment. As climate change continues to be a pressing issue, the Lakers are leading the way in promoting a greener future.
