Dive Brief:
- The recycling rate at the Jaguars' EverBank Field in Jacksonville, FL is reportedly 43% according to managing company SMG, however uncertainty about this number is suggesting that the stadium has a long way to go to reach optimal recycling rates.
- Kerri Stewart, the chief of staff for Mayor Lenny Curry, stated in August that the stadium's recycling rate was 3%. Keith Van Der Leest, assistant general manager for SMG, said that rate referred to the 2014 season, and followed-up with a review of trash disposal from that season showing a 5% recycling rate. "What has become abundantly clear is that there’s no clarity as to what the real number is," said Stewart.
- No matter the rate, SMG and Republic Services have pledged to promote recycling awareness among fans at EverBank Field. The companies are look to sustainable stadiums, such as the Philadelphia Eagles' Lincoln Financial Field, for inspiration on how to improve recycling.
Dive Insight:
Waste diversion has been a hot topic among NFL teams, as many have made efforts to promote recycling and composting at their respective stadiums. The Florida Times-Union refers to the use of corn-based food trays at the Philadelphia Eagles' Lincoln Financial Field which helps increase composting rates. In New York, composting rules have been issued at stadiums requiring separation of food waste from other trash and recycling. Additionally, the Buffalo Bills partnered with Republic Services for a third season to increase recycling participation at games, which will help keep the parking lot at Ralph Wilson Stadium clean while encouraging sustainability efforts among guests.
Teams are promoting recycling in other ways, as well. Repreve has joined the Detroit Lions as the team's sustainability partner, allowing for recycling awareness by dressing the teammates in jerseys made of recycled plastic bottles.
In order for Jacksonville to reach its recycling goal of 75% diversion by 2020, it will have to amp up efforts across the city — especially at EverBank Field — to encourage sustainable practices.
