Across the world, live event venues are taking bold steps toward a more sustainable future. Through a mix of innovative technology and environmental commitment, these venues are setting new standards for operational sustainability by reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing their carbon footprint.
These efforts are gaining global recognition. The World Economic Forum’s “Sports for People and Planet” initiative highlights how venues are implementing solutions like rainwater harvesting, passive cooling, solar-powered lighting, and biodiversity landscaping. Mercedes-Benz Stadium recently reached a major milestone by earning TRUE Platinum certification for diverting over 90% of its waste from landfills—an achievement that reflects a deep, strategic commitment to environmental stewardship.
As these programs grow in scale and ambition, technology continues to play a central role in making sustainability practical, measurable, and effective.
At Wicket, we always look for creative ways that our versatile platform can help customers achieve their goals, and reducing dependence on physical plastics is one of them. As an example, use of facial authentication software can augment reliance on single-use items for credentialing and ticketing to help contribute to sustainability goals.
Sustainability by Design: Less Waste, More Green
The core of this impact lies in the ability to eliminate the need for physical credentials and other identification materials that are used for one event and then disposed of. Consider the environmental toll: every disposable wristband, plastic key card, and physical ticket contributes to material consumption and eventual waste. Through the use of easy-to-use software, improvements can be made to reduce:
- Plastic Waste: Decreasing dependence on one-time use of physical materials, such as credentials and wristbands.
- Paper Waste: Simple solutions, such as sending digital receipts instead of printing paper receipts when using express checkout stations, have a meaningful impact.
This isn’t just theoretical; it’s a proven reality that has led to many advocates demanding that venues implement sustainability efforts. At Wicket, we continue to keep our eyes open for ways that we can assist our customers achieve sustainability goals by minimizing material waste across various touchpoints.
Our technology is capable of reframing how these transactions take place across a variety of use cases – such as guests accessing and re-entering premium areas, hospitality tents, and suites with a smile instead of a wristband or plastic lanyard around their neck. This frictionless approach not only enhances convenience but also empowers fans to actively participate in sustainability efforts.
Our technology is already being used in these ways at various venues and events, from multi-purpose venues like Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta to USGA events across the country. These use cases demonstrate how innovation can directly contribute to a more sustainable future for sports.
This benefits not just the environment but also enhances the fan journey and drives operational excellence. As live event venues continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, Wicket is proud to be at the forefront of this evolution, proving that a greener future can also be a more enjoyable and efficient one.