Populous-designed SunTrust Park Achieves LEED Silver

The U.S. Green Building Council recently awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification to SunTrust Park, the new 41,000 seat home of the Atlanta Braves which opened in April of 2017. LEED is the preeminent rating system for design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. SunTrust Park achieved its Silver rating by utilizing systems which improve water efficiency, energy performance and indoor air quality measures.

Populous design characteristics which support SunTrust Park’s LEED Silver rating include reduced energy consumption through the use of high-efficiency LED lighting, low flow fixtures which reduced potable water use by 42 percent, an HVAC system which minimizes the emission of ozone harmful compounds and extensive use of locally-sourced materials throughout the ballpark. Public transportation access within one-quarter mile of the stadium and facilities for electric and alternative fuel vehicles also contribute to a reduced carbon footprint for the venue.

SunTrust Park is one of many Populous-designed venues to achieve LEED certification in 2017. T-Mobile Arena, ICC Sydney, Georgetown University’s Thompson Center, the University of Utah’s Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility and the University of Colorado Athletics Complex all received LEED certification in the last year.

For more on the importance of sustainability in sports and entertainment venue design, contact Heather Stewart.