Manchester United leads the way in sustainable events
News
Manchester United’s United Events has succeeded in positioning itself as a leader in sustainability in the events sector by being externally certified to the newly launched ISO20121 standard – the internationally recognised framework which addresses the issue of sustainability.
This award comes as Old Trafford prepares to host the London 2012 Olympic Football Tournament and welcome fans and players from across the globe.
This standard enables Manchester United to demonstrate its dedication to continuously improving sustainability and striving to achieve the latest certifications available.
Old Trafford is also working towards achieving the British standard in this field (BS8901) and this progression to the international standard proves Manchester United’s commitment to sustainability.
Michael Bolingbroke, Chief Operating Officer for Manchester United, said: “Manchester United is delighted to have achieved this certification. Sustainability is something about which we care passionately and it’s a great achievement to be setting the standard in the events sector. Everyone at the Club worked incredibly hard to ensure that this certification was achieved and we look forward to continuing our efforts in this field.”
Manchester United legend Gary Neville, who recently took up the role of Environmental Ambassador for the Club, said: “Manchester United’s dedication to environmental best practice has progressed well over recent years. I’m very pleased to play my part as an ambassador to support the excellent work by the Club’s staff on their various initiatives and campaigns. This latest successful certification helps demonstrate real leadership in the growing area of sustainability in the sporting and events industry.”
In recent years, Manchester United’s dedication to reducing its carbon emissions was recognised when the Club achieved the Carbon Trust Standard and was placed top of the government’s CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme league table. In February this year, Manchester United also became the first football club in England to be awarded the international standard for Environmental Management Systems – ISO14001.
Manchester United has now realised the dream of achieving a treble in this field and become a major stadium and venue in the UK to hold three major sustainability standards: The Carbon Trust Standard, ISO14001 and ISO20121.