Climate Pledge Arena Opens Doors with Net Zero Goal

Populous designed the new Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, which opened its doors to the public on Oct. 22. The venue is poised to become the world’s first International Living Future Institute-certified net zero carbon arena.

The firm was engaged as architect of record by Oak View Group and the city to design the 740,000-square-foot arena with three goals: to create the most sustainable arena in the world, responsibly revitalize a historic landmark and cultivate the ultimate fan experience. As the region’s largest indoor venue, Climate Pledge Arena will host the NHL’s newest team, the Seattle Kraken, the WNBA’s Seattle Storm, plus concerts and other events.

Climate Pledge Arena’s name stems from Amazon’s naming-rights partnership which enlists the facility in The Climate Pledge, a global initiative that commits signatories to net zero carbon across all businesses by 2040. Populous collaborated with the owners, a public-private partnership between Oak View Group, Seattle Kraken Hockey and Seattle Center as well as project manager CAA ICON and construction partner MA Mortenson on the project.

“Creating the world’s best live entertainment building while celebrating an important and cherished landmark is what sets Climate Pledge Arena apart,” said Chris Carver, Populous senior principal and architect.