Downtown Atlanta’s Award-Winning Venue Recognized for Hosting More Than 600 Zero-Waste Events
 

ATLANTA - The Atlanta Hawks & State Farm Arena was recognized by both the Association of Luxury Suite Directors (ALSD), as part of their Global Premium Experience Network and the Green Sports Alliance (GSA) for the organization’s leadership in sustainability across the sports and entertainment industry. Since State Farm Arena began its sustainability journey in 2021, the award-winning downtown Atlanta venue has held more than 600 zero-waste events and diverted more than 10 million pounds of waste from landfills.

 

The Hawks & State Farm Arena took home the Best Sustainability or Social Impact Initiative Award at the 35^th Annual ALSD PX Conference and Trade Show. The Best Sustainability or Social Impact Award recognized a premium event, venue, or program that drives meaningful impact through sustainability, inclusivity, or community engagement.

 

State Farm Arena received the Play to Zero Award, presented by GSA at the Green Sports Alliance Summit hosted in Miami, Fla. The award recognizes and celebrates innovations in sustainability. Each year, the awards highlight achievements across different categories such as Waste Player and Energy Champion, among others.

 

“We’re honored to receive these awards from ALSD and the Green Sports Alliance. They reflect the intentional work we’ve invested in State Farm Arena over the past few years,” said Sofi Armenakian, Head of Sustainable Strategy for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “Sustainability is a forever journey, and every step—big or small—brings us closer to our goal: creating lasting, positive change in Atlanta, our community, and the planet. These accomplishments are only possible through consistent effort and the strength of our partnerships, which continue to drive innovation and impact across everything we do.”

 

ALSD is the world’s leading network of premium experience decision-makers in the sports and entertainment industry. For over 35 years, the association has powered the connections, collaborations and careers of a community of thought leaders who deliver premium experiences worldwide. This year’s three-day conference and trade show was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and featured the awards ceremony, keynote speakers, forums, networking opportunities and other experiences for attendees.  

 

“Our accomplishments wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and commitment of our State Farm Arena team members as well as our partners at Pritchard Sports & Entertainment and Levy Restaurants, who are dedicated to our sustainability mission,” said Amanda Mann, Executive Vice President and Chief Facilities Officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “These recognitions are a testament to the support from our fans and concertgoers who continue to contribute to our sustainability efforts, helping make State Farm Arena a leader in sustainability.” 

 

Greens Sports Alliance is a leader in fostering a community focused on collective responsibility and stewardship for the environment. The organization leverages the cultural and market influence of sports to promote healthy, sustainable communities where people live and play.

 

“We deeply appreciate these honors from ALSD and the Green Sports Alliance. Both underscore the power of our strong, purpose-driven partnerships,” said Andrew Saltzman, President of Business Enterprise and Chief Commercial Officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “Our partners are absolutely essential to everything we’ve achieved in sustainability, and together, we’re not just setting goals—we’re building innovative solutions that create real impact in Atlanta and beyond.” that rewards fans for correctly using the compost, recycling, and trash bins. Kimberly-Clark Professional has implemented product recycling and smart restroom technology. Smurfit Westrock is the official partner of the arena’s Resource Recovery Room (R3), where on-site sorting takes place. The addition of Heineken®’s Reverse Vending Machines, which offer fans an easy way to recycle their beverage bottles and cans, has also been instrumental to the arena’s sustainability efforts. Honeywell has partnered with the downtown venue and has upgraded building operations to help lower energy use and emissions. Additionally, through Georgia Natural Gas’ Greener Life® for Business program, the arena offsets 100% of the carbon emissions from its natural gas usage.

 

With a variety of notable partnerships, the Hawks and State Farm Arena continue to lead the charge in sustainability, both on and off the court. State Farm Arena’s official recycling partner, Novelis, hosts an in-game activation that gets fans involved. The segment, ‘Recycle and Win’ is a ‘surprise and delight’ initiative

 

To stay up to date on all of State Farm Arena’s sustainability efforts, visit the newly launched dashboard StateFarmArena.com/Sustainability-Dashboard.