UBS Arena achieves LEED Certified status

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and was developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). It is a green building rating system and evaluates locations through design, construction and operational practices that improve environmental and human health.

UBS Arena – which opened as the new home of the New York Islanders NHL ice hockey franchise in October 2021 – achieved LEED certification for implementing strategies in areas including sustainable site development, water saving, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

Heat recovery technology, LED lighting, high-performance glass and other design practices at the facility have reduced energy usage by over 15%.

UBS Arena has dedicated recycling stations and has been designed to reduce indoor potable water usage by over 40% with the installation of low-flow flush and flow fixtures. Environmentally friendly cleaning products are also used and the building provides air quality exceeding the ASHRAE 62.1-2010 standard and uses MERV13 air filters.

The venue’s location and proximity to local transport services help to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and native plants and high efficiency irrigation strategies help to reduce the arena’s outdoor water consumption.

Trees and strategic landscaping also provide multiple benefits such as combating the urban heat island effect, reducing rainwater run-off and promoting healthy habitats.

Kim Stone, President of UBS Arena and Executive Vice-President of OVG East Coast, said: “This acknowledgement highlights the dedication we put forth in its efforts to be environmentally conscious when designing and constructing our venue.

“As a founding member of GOAL (Green Operations & Advanced Leadership) and the first OVG Owned & Operated venue to achieve this prestigious certification, we’re proud that UBS Arena is at the forefront of sustainability.”

Mahesh Ramanujan, President and Chief Executive of USGBC, added: “LEED is a transformative tool that ensures a building is designed and operated to achieve high performance, improve human health and protect the environment.

“By prioritising sustainability, UBS Arena is leading the way in their industry and helping USGBC continue towards our goal of green buildings for everyone within this generation.”

Image: UBS Arena/Dennis DaSilva