New Jets, Giants stadium to be greener than most

[June 02, 2009]  EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- The New York Jets and Giants signed a memorandum of understanding with the Environmental Protection Agency that will make their new $1.6 billion football stadium in the New Jersey Meadowlands one of the greenest in professional sports.

The agreement details ways the teams will reduce air pollution, conserve water and energy, improve waste management and reduce the environmental impact of construction on the stadium that is scheduled to open for the 2010 season.

Recycled steel, concrete and aluminum are being used in the building. The 82,500 seats are being made from recycled iron and plastic.

One goal is to reduce average annual water demand by 25 percent compared to the current Giants Stadium. Waterless urinals will save 2.7 million gallons of water and the synthetic turf will save 3.5 million gallons compared to natural grass. Energy-efficient products are expected to reduce energy consumption 30 percent. New mass transit links are expected to eliminate 5.6 million miles of car travel per year.

"The Meadowlands has been our home for many, many years," Giants chief executive John Mara said. "We owe it to our neighbors and fans and to our team and our employees to adopt the most environmentally responsible approach possible."

The Giants have been based at the Meadowlands since 1976. The Jets started playing games at the stadium in 1984.

Jets owner Woody Johnson said the teams decided early to go green in the building of the stadium.

"This is a starting platform, and it is our pledge going forward that we will be part of the societal movement representing this ... trying to be responsible," said Johnson, who wore a green Jets hat and a green tie.

Mara had earlier kidded Johnson about the building being green. The Giants' primary color is blue.

"What I will say to my friend Woody Johnson is that today and St. Patrick's Day will be the only two days that green is the preferred color in this building," Mara said.

[Associated Press; By TOM CANAVAN]

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