Dive Brief:

• The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee has teamed up with Super Bowl XLIX to announce the first “Reduced Waste Challenge,” which will be held during the festivities accompanying the Super Bowl in the middle of downtown Phoenix.
• The organization planning the Super Bowl-related festivities is encouraging vendors, business owners and visitors to use recyclables and reusable products to eliminate waste.
• Composting will also be introduced on-site; bins will be set up by the Phoenix Department of Public Works. Food collected will be converted into compost. Volunteers will be on hand to assist attendees and ensure the materials are tossed into the correct bins.

Dive Insight:

This organics waste pilot program will serve as a test for the city of Phoenix as well as future sporting events. Because it is the first time organics collection will be introduced at the Super Bowl, the project will set a precedent for games to follow. The goal set for the “Reduced Waste Challenge” at this Super Bowl is to achieve an 80% diversion rate.

Sports teams have previously made an effort to recycle food waste by taking part in the EPA’s “Food Recovery Challenge.” Organizations like the NHL have participated in the food recovery project. Every team in the NHL was involved in “Rock and Wrap It Up,” a group that urges food recovery in 500 cities in the U.S. to help reduce waste and feed those who are hungry.