ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the application of environmental law and regulation to sport stadium construction and operation. It explores California-required environmental review prior to stadium construction and discusses opportunities for cities to work with stadium and arena owners and operators to reduce the environmental impact of these facilities through implementing resource conservation policies and programs. The chapter describes stadiums and cities have a unique relationship. Stadiums provide entertainment and economic development opportunities to cities and cities are in a place to regulate and encourage those stadiums to be built and operated with the environment in mind. Professional sports teams have demonstrated that "going green" means more than generating profits. It means how teams build, operate, and manage their stadiums' impacts on natural resources. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, "15 professional North American stadiums or arenas have achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design green building design certifications and virtually all have developed or are developing recycling and/or composting programs".
