Chapter 1: Introduction to Sustainable Practices

Portland’s Moda Center has set a remarkable example in environmental sustainability. Over the past ten years, this sports arena has shown how retrofitting existing structures can lead to a zero-carbon footprint.

Did you know that, as of 2018, more than half of the world's population resided in urban areas? This number is expected to surge to two-thirds by 2025. However, building emissions currently account for around 40 percent of total emissions, a figure that has doubled since 2019. While I’m no expert in environmental science, these statistics are alarming.

But hold on! This isn't another doomsday article. There’s good news on the horizon! Although we need to address building emissions and reform zoning laws, we have the technology to make significant changes.

Some cities and nations have already taken steps in the right direction. In fact, I recently discovered that my hometown's sports arena is a leader in implementing sustainable practices. The progress they’ve made is nothing short of inspiring.

Chapter 2: A Personal Connection

Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, specifically Portland, Oregon, my love for nature has always been deep-rooted—especially for trees. This passion was further nurtured at the Environmental Middle School, where I learned about nature in a way that traditional schools often overlook.

Though I cherish the outdoors, I also thrive in urban settings, which is why Portland captivates me. Its downtown area is nestled between the Willamette River and over 5,000 acres of lush forests. Just across the river from downtown lies Portland's sports arena, known as the Moda Center—though I still affectionately refer to it as The Rose Quarter, its name prior to 2013.

Given the close relationship between Portland and nature, it’s essential to me that the city’s development is environmentally friendly. The Moda Center is doing just that. While many industries are discussing potential changes, the Trail Blazers and Moda Center have been leading the charge for over a decade.

Chapter 3: Achievements in Sustainability

Prepare yourself for a bit of a lengthy read, but it's only because the list of initiatives from the Trail Blazers and the Moda Center is extensive and impressive. It’s both uplifting and overwhelming to see the various programs they’ve implemented to create a model for sustainability.

In 2010, the Moda Center—then known as the Rose Quarter—became the first sports venue to achieve Gold status in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, a widely recognized green building rating system. This certification was renewed in 2015, and by 2019, the venue reached Platinum LEED status, making it the first sports arena to achieve this honor.

In 2011, the Trail Blazers co-founded the Green Sports Alliance, with a mission to promote sustainability both inside and outside the arena. Their commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in their initiatives, such as the implementation of GreepDrop Recycling stations made from recycled materials and the establishment of an environmental services team to manage waste effectively. As a result, the arena's waste diversion rate increased from 38 percent in 2008 to 87 percent, culminating in the first zero-waste game in 2017. Today, the Moda Center diverts approximately 1.5 million pounds of waste from landfills annually.

Moreover, they are dedicated to giving back to the environment by purchasing Water Restoration Credits, effectively offsetting every gallon of water consumed by the arena. To date, they’ve contributed nearly 500,000 gallons of water to restore over 30 miles of Oregon rivers.

They also invest in Renewable Energy Credits to counterbalance the arena's electricity usage and offset 100 percent of natural gas consumption. While the majority of these efforts benefit local ecosystems, some carbon offsets are allocated to projects in Africa aimed at combatting deforestation.

Additionally, the Trail Blazers launched the Threes for Trees initiative, whereby three trees are planted along Oregon riverbanks for every three-point shot made during games. So far, this program has led to the planting of 800,000 trees, with 2,700 trees planted during the 2020/21 season.

The first video titled "City of Portland buys Moda Center for $7M" provides insights into the financial aspects of the arena's operations and its commitment to sustainability.

Chapter 4: Comprehensive Sustainability Efforts

The Trail Blazers and Moda Center have left no stone unturned in their sustainability efforts. Their initiatives span water conservation, energy efficiency, community engagement, and education on living sustainably.

Since 2008, they have successfully reduced their carbon footprint per event attendee by 25 percent by upgrading their energy systems. This includes replacing all lighting with LED bulbs, installing occupancy sensors, and modernizing their cooling systems.

In addition to purchasing water credits, the Moda Center has made significant internal upgrades to reduce water usage. This includes implementing smart irrigation and drought-resistant landscaping, as well as using eco-friendly cleaning products and low-flow fixtures.

The outcome? An almost 40 percent reduction in annual water usage per event attendee, which translates to over 3.5 million gallons—equivalent to a ten-foot-deep pool the size of a professional basketball court.

Their food sourcing emphasizes local produce from within a 100-mile radius, and their menus consist solely of sustainable options. Compostable materials are used for everything from napkins to utensils, and thousands of pounds of leftover food are donated to families in need. Since 2014, they have provided over 30,000 meals to local communities.

The Moda Center even upcycles old uniforms into new products like backpacks and pillows, sold at their gift shops. They are also pioneers in selling compostable thundersticks.

The second video titled "Keeping Formula E green & supporting local sustainability in Portland" showcases how local initiatives align with the broader goals of sustainability.

Chapter 5: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Moda Center truly embodies the spirit of its pro-basketball team, the Trail Blazers. They are paving the way for other sports venues and buildings to follow suit. What they are accomplishing is remarkable.

As I mentioned earlier, with projections indicating that nearly two-thirds of humanity will reside in urban areas in the near future, it is crucial to address how our cities and structures are designed to meet sustainability goals.

Portland’s Moda Center is not just discussing change; it is actively making it happen, serving as a model for effective practices. We have the knowledge and technology to steer ourselves toward a sustainable future. By advocating for green changes in our cities and supporting zoning reforms, we can continue down the trail they have blazed.

Katrina Paulson is a curious thinker who explores profound questions and new discoveries. She shares her insights on Medium and through her newsletters, the free Curious Adventure Newsletter and the more comprehensive Curious Life. Subscribing grants access to her articles and nearly two years of archived content. Your support helps Katrina continue her passion for exploring and sharing knowledge. Thank you for your readership; it is greatly appreciated.