Mercedes-Benz Stadium isn’t just a world-class sports and entertainment venue; it’s a landmark of sustainability. Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, this stadium has achieved LEED Platinum certification, the highest recognition for green building, making it the first professional sports stadium in North America to reach this milestone. But where is Mercedes-Benz Stadium exactly, and what makes its location and design so groundbreaking?
Opened in August 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is situated in downtown Atlanta at 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, USA. It’s easily accessible and centrally positioned, serving as a vibrant hub for major events. Home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United of MLS, the stadium is not only a beacon for sports fans but also a testament to innovative and sustainable design within a bustling urban environment. Its impressive LEED score of 88 points is the highest ever awarded to a sports venue globally, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Mercedes Benz Stadium
Alt text: Aerial view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta showcasing its architecture and urban location.
The stadium’s location is integral to its sustainability achievements. Its downtown setting encourages the use of public transportation, a key factor in reducing its carbon footprint. Mercedes-Benz Stadium actively promotes alternative transportation options, boasting convenient access to three MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) rail lines within a 0.7-mile radius. This accessibility leads the NFL with the highest percentage of fans utilizing public transport for Falcons games, significantly decreasing traffic congestion and emissions around event days. Beyond public transit, the stadium provides EV charging stations capable of charging 48 electric vehicles simultaneously and features a bike valet program, further supporting eco-friendly commuting choices for visitors. New pedestrian-friendly walking paths also enhance connectivity with surrounding communities, making the stadium an integrated part of the urban fabric of Atlanta.
Beyond its prime location and transport links, Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s commitment to sustainability is embedded in its very design and operations. Arthur Blank, owner and chairman of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, envisioned a venue that would “push the limits of what was possible in terms of stadium design, fan experience, and sustainability.” This vision translated into tangible achievements across various aspects of the stadium’s construction and ongoing management.
One of the most remarkable aspects is the stadium’s advanced water management system. It’s the first sports stadium to receive all water category credits from LEED, primarily due to its sophisticated stormwater management. Water-efficient fixtures and conservation infrastructure contribute to a 47 percent reduction in water usage compared to baseline standards. Partnerships with local organizations like Trees Atlanta further amplify these efforts, as captured rainwater is shared for tree irrigation, benefiting the wider Atlanta environment.
Energy efficiency is another cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s sustainability strategy. The stadium’s 4,000 solar PV panels generate enough renewable energy to power nine Atlanta Falcons games or 13 Atlanta United matches annually. Furthermore, the extensive use of LED lighting throughout the venue reduces energy consumption by as much as 60 percent compared to standard lighting, while also lasting ten times longer, minimizing replacement and waste.
The stadium’s dedication extends to community engagement and responsible resource management. Innovative local food production features, including edible landscaping and an urban garden, are being developed. A partnership with local organizations is also in place to train Westside residents in culinary arts, aiming to create living-wage job opportunities within the industry. Adjacent to the stadium, the Home Depot Backyard, a 13-acre greenspace, is under development to offer not only game-day parking and tailgating but also arts and cultural events and community building activities on non-event days, further integrating the stadium into the life of Atlanta.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s journey to LEED Platinum certification was a collaborative effort. Lead architect HOK, solar provider Georgia Power, and sustainability consultant Ecoworks Studio were crucial partners in realizing Arthur Blank’s vision of the most sustainable sports stadium. Their expertise and commitment were instrumental in achieving this landmark recognition.
As Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of USGBC, stated, Mercedes-Benz Stadium demonstrates to fans and the Atlanta community the commitment of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United leadership “to creating a space that is healthier and more sustainable.” The stadium not only sets a new standard for sports venues but also serves as an inspiring example for sustainable building practices in urban environments worldwide. So, where is Mercedes-Benz Stadium? It’s in Atlanta, Georgia, leading the way in sustainable sports and entertainment venues.
