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Achieving Sustainability Goals Together
In a groundbreaking achievement, Q2 Stadium, home to Austin FC, has earned its Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) certification, making it the first soccer-specific stadium and fifth sports venue worldwide to achieve this honor. This landmark certification underscores Q2 Stadium’s and Texas Disposal Systems’ (TDS) commitment to sustainability, driven by strategic planning and operational support from Okapi Environmental Services (OES).
What is TRUE Certification?
TRUE Certification, developed by Green Business Certification, Inc. (GBCI), recognizes organizations that implement comprehensive zero waste policies, achieve an average diversion rate of 90% or greater from landfills and adhere to a stringent set of waste reduction criteria. OES played a pivotal role in guiding Q2 Stadium through the certification process, from establishing sustainability goals to implementing innovative procedures.
Leading the Way in Environmental Stewardship
Founded by Bob Gregory in 1977, Texas Disposal Systems, Inc. is one of the largest independently owned solid waste collection, processing and disposal companies in the nation. Its fully integrated facility incorporates solid waste disposal, compost production and recycling operations. TDS provides the highest quality and most environmentally friendly services in the best interests of its customers, employees, and the community.
Working Together Since
the Beginning of the Franchise
As the Official Waste and Recycling Partner of Austin FC, TDS has played a crucial role in advancing the club’s zero waste objectives from the very beginning. Leveraging more than 45 years of expertise in waste diversion and sustainability, TDS has been instrumental in achieving this goal by developing and implementing strategies to increase the rate at which waste is diverted at the stadium.
Key accomplishments include:
Eco Stations: Guiding the selection of waste receptacles, called Eco Stations, that offer clear sorting instructions for fans, staff and athletes.
Trash Goalies: Providing staff to serve as Trash Goalies at the Eco Stations, offering fans real-time guidance on proper waste disposal to enhance their participation in sustainability efforts.
Educational Initiatives: Producing an award-winning video featuring a soccer ball navigating through the stadium, visually demonstrating how to sort items into the correct receptacles.
Partnering with Local Experts
Okapi Environmental Services is a management company providing executive and support management services. OES’ dedicated team of credentialed TRUE Advisors provided hands-on consulting, connecting Austin FC officials with vendors who share a commitment to sustainability. The collaborative efforts of TDS and OES led to the creation of an on-site waste processing facility, a mini Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), designed to maximize the efficiency of sorting and recycling operations at Q2 Stadium. This facility has enabled Q2 Stadium to achieve and maintain an impressive diversion rate of over 90% from the landfill.
Continuing Efforts
“This recognition is a testament to the leadership of Austin FC and Q2 Stadium in championing environmentally responsible practices,” said Matt Hutchings, Chief Operating Officer at OES. “We hope this achievement inspires other sports and entertainment venues to enhance their sustainability efforts and pursue meaningful certifications. Okapi is committed to supporting facilities across the nation in their journey towards waste diversion and sustainability excellence.”
For more information about Texas Disposal Systems, please visit www.TexasDisposal.com. To learn more about Okapi Environmental Services and their sustainability initiatives, please visit Consulting.OkapiEnvironmental.com.