The University of Washington has won the inaugural Sustainability Award from the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and USG Corporation for its sustainable practices, especially the renovation of Husky Stadium.
The Sustainability Award will be officially presented to Washington on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the award-winning facility Husky Stadium, during the Huskies’ homecoming football game against Oregon.
"Sustainability is an important part of our athletic culture at UW, and we're honored to receive this award," said Scott Woodward, director of athletics at UW. "Newly renovated Husky Stadium is considered 'The Greatest Setting in College Football' in large part due to the attention that was given to showcasing our stunning natural environment with its beautiful lake and mountain views. We have made it a top priority to preserve the beauty of our surroundings and our waste diversion rate of 75% reflects the commitment of Husky staff and fans to sustainability."
UW was one of four finalists for the award, beating out Southern Methodist University, UCLA and the U.S. Air Force Academy.
The USG NACDA Sustainability Award was designed to recognize NCAA Division I institutions, honoring athletics directors and their universities for incorporating sustainable practices and materials into their athletics facilities. An eight-person committee consisting of athletics directors across the country and representatives from USG and NACDA aided in selecting Washington as this year's first award winner.
Husky Stadium's renovation was completed before the 2013 season and is recognized as a model of success in facility renovation. The project’s approach to sustainability looked past the basics of water and energy conservation to enhance infrastructure, reduce the building’s impact on the surrounding environment and provide a platform that has allowed UW to promote sustainability to its stakeholders, students, and fans.
During constructions, over 95% of construction waste was reused or recycled. Concrete removed from the lower bowl was crushed on site and reused for fill under the current structure. The stadium was renovated using Salmon Safe practices, using two large retention ponds to filter all waste water before entering Lake Washington. Addtionally, existing trees and shrubs were saved and replanted on site after construction.
During the 2014 season, 76 percent of all waste generated on gamedays at the stadium was diverted from the landfill through composting and recyling, a seven percent jump from the previous year.