How The O2 is Charting a Greener Future

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(Credit: The O2)
From circular initiatives to increased efficiency, we explore how The O2's supply chain shift is positioning the venue as a carbon-neutral concert pioneer

The O2, London’s iconic live entertainment venue, is making waves in sustainability while maintaining its position as the world’s busiest destination for music, leisure and retail.

Operated by AEG Europe, it has earned a ‘commended’ status from A Greener Future through its A Greener Arena certification. The accolade reflects significant efforts to reduce environmental and social impacts, setting an example for the live entertainment industry.

From pioneering carbon-neutral concerts to rethinking operational efficiencies, The O2 is paving the way for sustainable practices across the sector.

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Pioneering carbon-removed events

The O2 made history earlier this year by hosting the world’s first carbon-removed arena events during The 1975’s four headline shows. These concerts achieved the removal of 545.9 tonnes of carbon, equivalent to the annual electricity usage of 395 average homes.

Beyond the events themselves, these initiatives highlight how collaboration with carbon removal experts like CUR8 reshapes the venue’s supply chain by incorporating new partners focused on cutting-edge sustainability technologies.

The venue’s commitment to sustainable procurement also plays a central role. Since 2012, The O2 has exclusively purchased green energy, ensuring its energy supply chain prioritises renewable sources. Its campus-wide sustainable food strategy promotes local and environmentally responsible sourcing, reinforcing its commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of its catering operations.

Furthermore, The O2 has eliminated single-use plastic cups at live events, opting for sustainable alternatives. This move not only reduces waste but redefines supply chain relationships with beverage container providers, pushing them to innovate and adapt.

Sam Booth, Director of Sustainability at AEG Europe, explains the importance of these achievements: “From history-making moments like our carbon removed events, to the essential works we’ve done behind the scenes to create efficiencies and minimise waste and emissions, we’ve made incredible strides at The O2 this year and we’re proud to have this recognised by A Greener Future.”

Sam Booth, Director of Sustainability at AEG

The recognition comes during a record-breaking year for The O2, with more than 2.6 million tickets sold — a 3.5% increase from 2023. This success demonstrates that prioritising sustainability does not mean compromising performance or growth.

Instead, it highlights how proactive measures can inspire industry-wide shifts while maintaining commercial success.

A significant part of The O2’s success lies in its waste management initiatives. Its zero waste to landfill policy has restructured its waste stream, fostering partnerships with recycling and waste processing facilities to support a more circular economy.

On-site composting facilities, including a wormery and bio-digester for food waste, create a closed-loop system that reduces the venue’s reliance on external fertiliser suppliers.

The O2’s transportation strategies further demonstrate its holistic approach to sustainability. The adoption of electric-powered vehicles — including forklifts set to arrive in 2025 — reduces fossil fuel emissions, transforming relationships with vehicle suppliers and maintenance providers.

Additionally, the expansion of EV charging points encourages greener travel for staff, performers and visitors, aligning with broader supply chain shifts towards sustainable transport solutions.

Claire O’Neil, CEO of A Greener Future, acknowledges the influence of The O2’s initiatives: “When one of the most iconic venues takes visible action for a more sustainable live sector, it reverberates throughout the industry. With all shoulders to the wheel, we look forward to seeing what comes next.”

Claire O’Neill, CEO at A Greener Future

Since opening in 2007, The O2 has welcomed more than 100 million visitors and sold more than 30 million tickets. Hosting over 300 events annually, the venue also features attractions like the roofwalk Up at The O2, London’s largest cinema, and interactive experiences like TOCA Social and iFLY Indoor Skydiving.

AEG Europe, The O2’s operator, is part of AEG, a global leader in sports and live entertainment. Its portfolio spans major venues, including Eventim Apollo in London and Accor Arena in Paris, as well as music festivals like BST Hyde Park. This reach enables AEG Europe to influence sustainable practices across the live entertainment industry.

As The O2 continues to lead with innovation and commitment, its sustainability efforts are set to inspire venues worldwide.


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