Max SteventonCo-op Live, the UK’s largest live entertainment arena, has received two international sustainability awards this month, recognising its environmental initiatives across live events.
The Oak View Group (OVG) operated venue was awarded the Billie Eilish Award for Sustainability (Venue) at the Pollstar Live! Awards in Los Angeles on 15 April. The award recognised sustainability measures delivered during four Billie Eilish concerts at the 23,500-capacity Manchester venue in July last year.
During the Billie Eilish shows, Co-op Live implemented a fully plant-based food offering. The venue operator reported a 47% reduction in emissions compared with a typical arena event, emissions savings equivalent to 45 flights from Manchester to Dublin, and 3.5 million litres of water saved.
Co-op Live also received one of the inaugural MSA Bobby Weir Sustainability Awards, which recognise leadership and innovation in sustainability across the music industry.
The venue reported emissions reductions of up to 65% on selected food items, with plant-based burgers reducing emissions by around 89%. The venue said it maintains at least 40% plant-based menu options at all events.
Co-op Live was also awarded certification from sustainability consultancy A Greener Future last December.
Co-op Live sustainability & CSR director Sara Tomkins said, “These awards are a proud moment for everyone involved in Co-op Live and a powerful recognition of what can be achieved when sustainability is embedded across the team from day one.
“Working closely with artists like Billie Eilish allows us to push boundaries and demonstrate that world-class live experiences can go hand in hand with meaningful environmental action.”