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Melbourne's Margaret Court Arena has become the first sport and entertainment arena in Australia to receive a LEED Gold certification.

The ‘green’ arena, which is fast becoming one of Melbourne’s most popular music venues for both sport and live entertainment, was designed and built with a key focus on sustainability.

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system, developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), is a program for buildings, homes and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained and operated for improved environmental and human health performance.

More than 154 countries are currently participating in LEED.

LEED recognises best-in-class building strategies and practices. In order to receive LEED certification, building projects must satisfy prerequisites and earn points to achieve different levels of certification and it is the most internationally recognised certification of its kind.

Margaret Court Arena (MCA) achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at achieving high performance in: Sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection etc.

Key initiatives included:

• Energy efficient lighting and air conditioning systems.
• Operable roof allowing air conditioning and lighting systems to be reduced when conditions are favourable
• Reuse of existing structures
• Water efficient fittings
• Sustainably sourced timber
• Recycling of waste generated in construction
• Cool roof, which reflects the sun’s heat
• Shading overhangs that block summer sun but allow winter sun
• Rainwater flushed toilets that are connected to the site-wide water harvesting system.

Welcoming the accolade, Melbourne & Olympic Parks Chief Executive Brian Morris stated “we’re very proud of the fact MCA is the first sport and entertainment arena in Australia to receive this level of LEED certification.

“The new venue has been warmly received by the Melbourne public and we’re delighted it’s been recognised for its sustainable initiatives.

“This is now Melbourne & Olympic Parks’ second LEED certification, which demonstrates our commitment to sustainable practices and our intention to make the precinct one of the most sustainable sports and entertainment hubs in the world.

“We’re passionate about increasing benefits to the people of Victoria, and MCA’s innovative approach to sustainability goes a long way towards lessening our impact on the environment.”

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