As the Philadelphia Eagles face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2025 Super Bowl, one question looms larger than ever: how sustainable is the biggest sporting event in America? Over the years, the National Football League (NFL) has made significant strides in improving its environmental footprint, with the Super Bowl being a key focal point for sustainability efforts.
While the game itself garners massive attention worldwide, it’s the steps taken behind the scenes that are beginning to shape the future of green events. From waste management to renewable energy, the NFL is exploring new ways to incorporate sustainability into this iconic event.
The NFL has been tackling its carbon footprint head-on. One of the most notable initiatives is its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Super Bowl. Since 2014, the league has made measurable strides in its efforts to neutralise emissions, including investing in carbon credits and offsetting transportation-related emissions for attendees. “The NFL has made sustainability a priority, with a focus on energy, waste, water, and transportation,” said the NFL’s sustainability director, Amy Latimer. These initiatives aim to make the Super Bowl more environmentally friendly while maintaining the event’s thrilling atmosphere.
Zero waste targets
One of the most ambitious sustainability goals for the Super Bowl is its focus on zero waste. In recent years, organisers have significantly reduced the amount of waste sent to landfill. According to Forbes, in 2025, the event aims to divert at least 90% of waste away from landfills, a remarkable target in an industry often criticised for its waste-heavy events. This includes better recycling practices, composting, and working with vendors who commit to sustainable practices.
Green stadiums and renewable energy
Sustainable stadiums are another area where the NFL has stepped up. Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, home of the 2025 Super Bowl, is a prime example of energy-efficient design. With its solar panels and energy-efficient systems, it contributes to the NFL’s push to run stadiums on renewable energy. The NFL is also working with local authorities to implement energy-efficient transportation options for fans, reducing emissions from travel to and from the event.
Sustainability showdown: Eagles vs Chiefs
This year’s Super Bowl has also seen a rivalry beyond the field, with the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs competing to be the greener team. According to Sustainability Magazine, both teams have been engaging in sustainable practices, with the Eagles focusing on renewable energy use in their home stadium, and the Chiefs taking steps to reduce plastic usage at their events. Both teams are stepping up in ways that reflect a broader commitment to environmental consciousness, making this Super Bowl a reflection of the NFL’s growing green efforts.
The NFL’s push for sustainability is not just about making one game more environmentally friendly—it’s about setting a precedent for future events. With renewable energy, waste reduction, and sustainable transportation all being priorities, the NFL is proving that it’s possible to host large-scale sporting events without sacrificing environmental responsibility.
As the Eagles and Chiefs clash in 2025, fans can rest assured that their love for the game is being balanced with a greater focus on preserving the environment. The Super Bowl may be a symbol of athletic prowess, but it’s also becoming a symbol of how sports can play a role in shaping a sustainable future.
By continuing to innovate and prioritise sustainability, the NFL is paving the way for more eco-conscious sports events in the future, showing that it’s possible to enjoy the big game while keeping an eye on the bigger picture.
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