Austin FC/Q2 Stadium, Austin
TEEA 2026 Winner: Innovative Operations/Management
The design process of Austin FC’s Q2 Stadium made sure to include environmentally responsible features, leading to the achievement of LEED Gold Certification. The stadium has implemented multiple waste management strategies, and in 2024, developments were made towards zero-waste with the installation of a custom-made materials recovery facility (MRF) in collaboration with Texas Disposal Systems.
To help housekeeping staff reduce their travel time, waste collected throughout the stadium is transported directly to the MRF via trash chutes. Once the waste reaches the MRF, staff sorts the waste onto a series of conveyor belts to ensure that waste reaches the proper dumpster. Signage is also placed around the stadium, so that fans and guests are well-informed about proper waste management practices.
The MRF has created a more efficient and comfortable environment for the waste-sorting staff to work in, which has ultimately led to improved overall diversion. Since installing the MRF, the stadium’s diversion percentage rose by over 90%, allowing Q2 Stadium to become the first soccer-specific stadium with Total Resource Use and Efficiency certification.
