Co-op Live Manchester Receives A Greener Arena Certification
Co-op Live has been named A Greener Arena 2025, receiving the “Highly Commended” certification from A Greener Future, the UK’s authority on all things event sustainability
The “Highly Commended” certification awards venues that go above and beyond to reduce their environmental footprint, support their communities, and lead the industry in innovation.
Plant Plans: How Co-op Live Aims To Become The Most Sustainable Building In Europe & UK
After a full year of assessment, from May 2024 to May 2025, covering everything from carbon emissions and energy use to community impact and wellbeing, Co-op Live has been recognized for putting sustainability front and centre.
Co-op Live is powered entirely by renewable energy and uses smart systems to reduce waste and conserve resources. The arena’s design includes rainwater-flushing toilets, low-energy lighting, and cutting-edge technology to manage power more efficiently.
It’s also easy to get to, with excellent public transport connections, the CityLink Walking Route presented by The Climate Pledge, and 240 covered cycle spaces on site.
The arena isn’t just environmentally aware: Every level is step-free, there are hearing loops, audio enhancements, gender-neutral toilets, multi-faith prayer rooms, a quiet space for those who need it, and even a dog spending room – all efforts to Co-op be welcoming, comfortable and accessible to all fans.
Food and drink inside the arena is curated to offer top-quality, homegrown options, and with a strong focus on reducing waste.
The venue’s commitment to their official charity partner, Co-op Foundation, supports youth-led social change by funding vital initiatives such as the Foundation’s Young Gamechangers Fund.
Guy Dunstan, senior vice president & general manager, Co-op Live, commented, “We are incredibly proud to receive the ‘Highly Commended’ award from A Greener Future. Sustainability isn’t just a feature of Co-op Live, it’s one of our founding principles. From renewable energy and rainwater reuse to inclusive design and community giving, we’ve built this arena to do things differently and set a new standard for live entertainment. Welcoming over one million visitors with over 100 shows in our first year demonstrates that great fan experiences and genuine environmental leadership can truly go hand in hand.”
A Greener Future assessors added in a joint comment, “Co-op Live opened in 2024 as an impressive new venue fully powered by renewable electricity, and harnessing solar energy and rainwater capture in its design. Surrounding landscaping extends to a new walking route to the city centre, working in partnership with Manchester City Council and Transport for Greater Manchester to improve the public realm not just for gig-goers but also local communities. The venue has also taken proactive steps to collaborate with artists on sustainability actions, such as providing fully plant-based catering at certain events. The venue also has a pledge to raise at least £1 million per year for the Co-op Foundation and other charities.”
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