Recycle Track Systems Inc. (RTS), New York, announced a multi-year partnership with MLS’ Philadelphia Union as the exclusive company to manage waste services for the 18,500-seat Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Pennsylvania. RTS’ first order of business is helping to salvage the existing soccer field’s soil, which will provide 93 tons of reuse for composting or fill for construction projects.
In addition to readying the stadium for a brand-new field, RTS’ LEED-accredited team will work closely with the staff to support proper education and communication on waste separation and diversion practices. RTS will also support Philadelphia Union in fan engagement, including in-stadium signage, proper branding on all waste receptacles and an educational pregame video to encourage fan participation in recycling during events.
“We’re excited the Philadelphia Union recognizes the need to initiate a recycling plan that will replicate existing green sports stadium waste standards and help mitigate future impacts to the overall environmental footprint,” RTS co-founder and CEO Greg Lettieri says. “This is another terrific example of the continuing work of Philadelphia-area businesses and organizations taking steps to be more sustainable.”
As part of the overall sustainability plan, RTS will also manage the waste streams at Philadelphia Union’s state-of-the-art indoor practice facility housed in the historic Annex building adjacent to Talen Energy Stadium. The 16,500-square-foot building includes a weight training area, physical therapy and sports science development area, nutrition center, locker rooms and offices.
“We are thrilled that RTS is a part of the Union family,” Philadelphia Union Senior Vice President Jean-Paul Dardenne says. “Not only are they the leaders in their field, but the Union and RTS share the passion to give back to the community.”
The wide-ranging recycling plan at Talen Energy Stadium is a result of more sports stadiums addressing the enduring challenges of sustainability. Since 2017, the U.S. Green Building Council identified at least 30 LEED-certified sports venues in use or underway in the U.S., and the organization said that number is growing.
The Union is the second professional soccer team RTS has partnered with, following on the heels of its deal with Washington-based D.C. United, which operates out of Audi Field. RTS also manages services at other sports facilities including Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.; Citi Field, Queens, New York; and Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York.