As host of more than 90 major sporting events and 3.5 million visitors annually, it is no surprise that the MCG produces a lot of rubbish – from pie wrappers and plastic cups to cardboard packaging and food waste.
However, thanks to comprehensive waste recycling efforts, in 2016 alone the stadium has been able to divert more than 1377 tones of rubbish from landfill – this amounts to recycling 77.7 per cent of all waste created at the ‘G, up from 60 per cent four years ago.The MCC’s commitment to recycling is managed via strict policies regarding the materials and products allowed to be brought into the stadium, and thorough waste segregation via 20 different streams – including glass, organics, soil and turf and soft plastics.
Last month, MCC was recognised for its achievements in sustainability, receiving the inaugural #SEA Change Solutions award at the Sports Environment Alliance summit in Melbourne.
As a founding member of the Sports Environment Alliance, the MCC has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to operating the MCG in an environmentally responsible manner.
Ongoing upgrades and efforts in water conservation, environmental protection, energy efficiency and waste management have significantly improved the stadium’s green credentials, and confirmed the MCG’s standing as one of the most sustainable stadia in the world.
“We are very pleased to receive this recognition,” said MCC facilities general manager, Peter Wearne. “It is a fantastic endorsement by leaders within our industry that the MCG’s sustainability efforts are at the forefront of best practice.
“Beyond this accolade we are proud of the continued improvement of our recycling facilities at the MCG. “Approximately 10 years ago we were only recycling 10-15 percent of waste produced during events, so to now be above 75 per cent and rising is a great achievement.”
The MCC remains at the forefront of water conservation, with the innovative underground water recycling facility housed outside the ground providing secure, long-term sustainable water supply to the heritage-listed Yarra Park and MCG.
Working in tandem with Siemens, the club has also completed a significant energy efficiency upgrade that has seen the MCG generate enough energy savings annually to power more than 835 houses for a year.
“We have a strong belief in the importance of operating the MCG in an environmentally responsible manner and we look forward to further improvements in the years to come,” said Mr Wearne.