Sustainability scores a GOAL at Q2 Stadium: An Austin Green Business Leader Spotlight

Home to Austin FC, Q2 Stadium is raising the standard for sustainability across the professional sports world. Opened in 2021, it is the first soccer-specific stadium in the world to receive Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) certification. This certification acknowledges projects that are implementing essential actions and policies aimed at achieving zero waste. Recently, Q2 Stadium was awarded Platinum status in the Austin Green Business Leaders Program, recognizing its dedication to business practices that benefit both people and the planet.

“Sustainability was an integral part of Q2 Stadium’s design, and it continues to be a top priority as we strive to make the venue a home that Austinites can enjoy for years to come,” said Austin FC President Andy Loughnane. “It’s an honor to officially become the first soccer-specific stadium to earn this TRUE certification, in our commitment to a greener future.”

TRUE GOLD Certification Plaque standing in the Austin FC stadium.

From thoughtful design to daily operations, Q2 Stadium is proving that high-performance sports and high-impact sustainability can go hand in hand. Here are a few of Q2 Stadium’s Sustainability Highlights:

• LEED Gold Certification: Their LEED Gold Certification showcases Q2 Stadium’s design and operational commitment to sustainability.
• Mini MRF: One of the most impactful and recent achievements is the installation of their Mini MRF (Materials Recovery Facility). The housekeeping team sorts waste during games and major events, allowing them to recover nearly all recyclables and compostables that would otherwise end up in landfills. It plays a critical role in helping to meet their zero-waste goals and better educate fans about proper disposal.

A person sorts waste in the Mini Materials Recovery Facility.

• TRUE Gold Certification: Q2 Stadium is proud to have achieved TRUE Gold Certification through its commitment to zero waste and a 90% diversion rate. This recognition reflects the stadium’s commitment to thorough waste reduction strategies and sustainable initiatives.
• Hydration Stations: Three Hydration Stations allow fans to refill their reusable bottles, helping to avoid the use of over 40,000 single-use plastic bottles each season. This initiative promotes sustainable habits and aligns with broader efforts to eliminate plastic waste within the stadium.
• Downsizing our Landfill bin: Q2 was able to downsize their 40-yard landfill dumpster to a 30-yard dumpster, then again to an 8-yard compactor due to the decrease in landfill waste. This infrastructure change, with clear signage and staff support, such as its Trash Goalies, helps fans make more sustainable choices and aligns with our zero-waste mission.

Trash Goalies that have three compartments for compost, landfill, and recycling.

• Cap Metro Station: The addition of a CapMetro Station next to Q2 Stadium has expanded public access while encouraging fans to choose public transit over personal vehicles. This reduces traffic congestion, lowers carbon emissions, and supports a cleaner, more connected Austin.
• Environmentally Preferred Purchasing: Environmental purchasing requirements guide vendors and stadium staff to prioritize environmentally responsible products. By emphasizing source reductions and replacing landfill-bound items with compostable or recyclable alternatives, Q2 has reduced its environmental footprint across all operations. This initiative reinforces a culture of sustainability and supports local and ethical sourcing practices.
• Evergreen (Go Verde): The "Go Verde" campaign, under the Evergreen platform, is a call for sustainability and community engagement through Austin FC. It represents a year-round commitment to environmental responsibility, with initiatives ranging from the three pillars of waste diversion, resource efficiency, and protecting our green spaces.

Originally introduced in 2011, the Austin City Council set a Zero Waste Goal to reduce the amount of trash sent to landfills by 90% by 2040. Q2 Stadium’s TRUE Gold certification demonstrates Austin FC’s active role in helping the city move toward that goal through smarter materials management and waste reduction.

These efforts also align with the broader vision of the Austin Climate Equity Plan, which lays out the city’s path to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. By prioritizing sustainability at every level, Q2 Stadium contributes to a cleaner, more resilient Austin — both today and for future generations. Listos! Verde!

Is your business a green business?

If so, we encourage you to join Moody Center by becoming an Austin Green Business Leader to get recognized for doing good work in our community. Learn more.

If you’d like your business to be featured in future spotlights, please contact AGBL Program Manager Mary K. Priddy.