On how Ethara embeds sustainability in all events and venues
Danny Klima, Ethara’s Venue Portfolio Director, boasts over two decades of experience in international events and venue management, pivotal in expanding and enhancing their operations. He focuses on growing the venue portfolio and spearheading new developments to meet regional demands while leading Ethara’s Strategic Portfolio Office.
Committed to sustainability, Danny actively leads Ethara’s green initiatives and is a proud member of the UN’s Sports for Climate Action group, aligning local efforts with global environmental goals. Ethara manages a notable array of assets, including Yas Marina Circuit and Etihad Arena, and aims to redefine the future of entertainment, sports, and event services on regional and global levels. Here is everything you want to know about their sustainable practices…
What inspired Ethara to prioritize sustainability in its venue portfolio, and how does this align with its values?
Ethara’s dedication to sustainability is at the heart of its goal to enhance life quality. Initially fueled by a passionate internal team, this commitment aligns with significant environmental policies such as Abu Dhabi’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy, the FIA 3* Environmental Framework, and Formula 1’s Net Zero Strategy. These policies guide our efforts to refine operational practices and contribute to global climate change mitigation, with notable initiatives aimed at reducing the carbon footprint at the Yas Marina Circuit.
At the helm of these efforts, Ethara’s CEO leads the Sustainability Steering Committee, comprising senior leaders who integrate sustainability into daily operations and strategic objectives. This integration extends to making sustainability a strategic Key Performance Indicator, weaving environmental responsibility into the organization’s decision-making processes.
Can you share some specific sustainability initiatives Ethara has implemented across its venues?
In 2023, Ethara secured ISO 20121 and ISO 14001 certifications for sustainable event management of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and environmental management at Yas Marina Circuit, respectively. These accolades underscore our commitment to environmentally responsible practices and robust governance.
Ethara has implemented several initiatives across its venues to diminish environmental impact and bolster operational efficiency. Notably, its collaboration with Emerge—a partnership between Masdar and EDF—exemplifies Ethara’s strategy to integrate cutting-edge sustainable technologies. This includes a solar power car park at Yas Marina Circuit, which generates about 30% of the circuit’s yearly energy requirements, significantly reducing traditional energy dependency.
The partnership with Musco has also led to the installation of LED track lighting, which has reduced the circuit’s electricity consumption by 24%, enhanced energy conservation, and improved the spectator experience. As part of its comprehensive approach to sustainability, we also emphasizes water recycling, waste management through composting and food donations, and reducing plastic use, including integrating recycled plastics into staff uniforms. These initiatives reflect the ongoing commitment to setting new standards in sustainable venue management and minimizing environmental impact.
How does Ethara approach sustainability in terms of both operational practices and the overall design and construction of its venues?
Ethara has entrenched sustainability in its operations, recognized by ISO 20121 and ISO 14001 certifications for the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Yas Marina Circuit. The company emphasizes waste management by reducing single-use plastics and enhancing recycling during events like the Formula 1 race. The energy initiatives focus on utilizing energy-efficient technologies to cut consumption and promote renewable energy, significantly reducing the ecological footprint of its venues.
Water conservation is a priority, with measures such as efficient irrigation systems and water-saving fixtures to minimize waste. Additionally, we collaborated with industry leaders like Oak View Group to advance sustainable venue design, applying lessons from projects like Climate Pledge Arena to ensure new venues meet rigorous environmental standards.
Additionally, we integrate sustainability into the fan experience, prioritizing eco-friendly food and beverage options and responsible sourcing. By combining advanced sustainability practices with top-tier entertainment, we aim to lead in sustainable venue management in the Middle East, offering environmentally conscious yet enjoyable experiences.
What challenges has Ethara encountered in implementing sustainable practices, and how have these been addressed?
Ethara actively addresses the challenges of implementing sustainable practices in venue management through strategic planning, partnerships, and continuous improvement. Detailed cost-benefit analyses manage the high initial costs of sustainable solutions like energy-efficient technologies to ensure long-term financial benefits. Technical challenges from new technologies are tackled by collaborating with seasoned providers and conducting pilot tests to ensure system integration and efficacy.
To overcome resistance and boost sustainability awareness, we run training programs for staff, vendors, and visitors, cultivating a proactive sustainability culture. The company stays ahead of evolving sustainability regulations by adapting practices to meet strict environmental standards. Ethara also ensures its supply chain aligns with its sustainability goals by setting procurement criteria and working closely with like-minded suppliers. These efforts help them lead in sustainable venue management while maintaining compliance and driving environmental stewardship across operations.
How does Ethara measure the environmental impact of its venues, and what metrics are used to evaluate success in sustainability efforts?
We are committed to reducing its environmental impact, striving to surpass sustainability standards across its Middle East venues. The company conducts annual Carbon Footprint Assessments at locations like Yas Marina Circuit, evaluating energy use, transportation, and waste management. These assessments help pinpoint improvement areas and set reduction targets. Key performance indicators include carbon emission reduction, resource efficiency, recycling rates, biodiversity enhancement, and stakeholder feedback, particularly from Formula 1 and the FIA. We also aim to serve as a benchmark for environmental and social responsibility in the region.
Can you discuss any innovative sustainability technologies or strategies that Ethara is exploring to embed in the future of the venue portfolio? What are some of the plans?
Ethara has crafted a net zero strategy that aligns with industry regulations, significantly investing in technology to reduce energy consumption and establishing solid governance for daily operations.
This year, Ethara is focusing on four strategic areas:
- Challenging the Status Quo: Ethara is reevaluating its operations through a sustainability lens, fostering innovation, and securing funding for initiatives that reduce environmental impact.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: The company is working with the United Nations Sport for Climate Action and Formula 1 to share best practices, launch joint initiatives, and promote sustainability in the industry.
- Partnership with Oak View Group: Ethara and Oak View Group exchange knowledge and insights on sustainable practices, adapting them to fit local needs in the Middle East.
- Training & Awareness: Recognizing the importance of education, Ethara invests in training programs to build a sustainability-minded culture within the organization. These programs empower employees to make informed decisions and encourage behavioural change that supports the organization’s sustainability goals.
