O2: Leading the Way in Sustainable Live Entertainment

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(Credit: The O2)
We explore the O2’s proactive approach to sustainability in the music industry and its determination to innovate to reduce its Scope 3 impact

The O2, the iconic London venue and the busiest live destination globally, is taking bold strides to reduce its environmental impact.

Owned and operated by AEG Europe, it has been awarded a "commended" status as A Greener Arena by A Greener Future. The certification highlights its efforts to minimise negative environmental and social impacts while advancing sustainability in the live entertainment industry.

This accolade reflects The O2’s proactive approach to sustainability and its determination to innovate and lead by example in reducing emissions, particularly Scope 3 emissions. 

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The O2 has had a remarkable year of progress in sustainability.

In February, it made headlines by hosting four carbon-removed events featuring The 1975. These shows marked a milestone in the live entertainment world, as the carbon footprint of 545.9 tonnes – equivalent to the annual electricity use of 395 homes – was extracted and removed.

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

Beyond these events, The O2 has optimised its energy efficiency with measures like advanced waste sorting facilities and the complete rollout of reusable cups across the site.

To tackle transport-related emissions, the venue has invested in electric vehicles and plans to add electric forklifts in 2025 to replace fossil fuel-powered machinery.

Influence across the industry

The O2’s commitment to sustainability resonates well beyond its walls. As one of the most recognisable live venues, its efforts serve as a model for others in the industry.

Claire O’Neill, CEO at A Greener Future, highlights this influence: “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 will come next.”

Such leadership is particularly crucial in addressing Scope 3 emissions, which often require broad industry collaboration.

By demonstrating tangible results, The O2 is encouraging others to adopt similar measures, amplifying the overall impact.

The venue’s achievements this year also coincide with a record-breaking performance, having sold more than 2.6 million tickets, a 3.5% increase on its 2023 sales. This success demonstrates that prioritising sustainability does not come at the expense of delivering world-class entertainment.

Claire O’Neill, CEO at A Greener Future

A broader vision for sustainability

The O2 is part of AEG Europe’s expansive portfolio, which includes numerous other venues and events committed to greener practices.

The company’s vision extends beyond individual venues, influencing global sustainability efforts across its live entertainment and sports properties.

Visitors to The O2 benefit from its unique mix of attractions, which range from music events to retail, dining and immersive experiences like the roof walk adventure Up at The O2.

Sustainability efforts extend to these areas as well, showcasing the venue’s dedication to embedding environmentally responsible practices into every aspect of its operations.

As the live entertainment sector moves toward a greener future, The O2’s commitment to reducing emissions and embracing innovation stands as a powerful example. Its achievements underline that sustainability and success can go hand in hand.


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