#United States #Las Vegas #Ocean Conservancy #Reusable Cups #GOAL

Ocean Conservancy and GOAL's Innovative Partnership

In an effort to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainability in the sports and entertainment sectors, Ocean Conservancy has partnered with GOAL to launch the "Protect Where We Play Tour." This initiative aims to engage concertgoers and sports fans across the country to drastically reduce the impact of single-use plastic cups during major events.

The Initiative:

Launching at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on June 6-7, where Coldplay will be performing, the tour will implement a reusable cup program to cut down on the estimated one million disposable cups that typically flood the waste stream during such gatherings. Additional tour stops include vibrant cities like Savannah, GA, and New York, featuring artists like The Lumineers and Billie Eilish.

Supported by Bold Reuse, an organization specializing in reusable logistics, this initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic pollution, but also creates a template for sustainable practices within the entertainment industry. As highlighted by Kristen Fulmer, Executive Director of GOAL, the partnership exemplifies how mission-oriented collaborations can drive significant operational changes in venues while also fulfilling broader environmental objectives.

Why It Matters:

The health of our oceans—responsible for about 50% of the planet’s oxygen—has far-reaching implications, not only for marine life but for our enjoyment of events that bring us joy, whether we dwell on the coast or inland. Jenna DiPaolo, Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Ocean Conservancy, emphasizes that a clean ocean is vital for the future of our favorite activities. This initiative taps into the emotional connection of being a fan to inspire collective action towards preserving our environment for future generations.

Upcoming Tour Stops and Dates:

1. June 6-7: Coldplay at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV
2. September 27: The Lumineers at Enmarket Arena, Savannah, GA
3. October 25-26: Billie Eilish at UBS Arena, Belmont Park, NY

And many more stops are expected to be announced!

More than Just a Tour:

This isn't merely about collecting cups—it's part of a larger movement. The Protect Where We Play Initiative has been actively recruiting sports and entertainment fans to engage in ocean conservation. Prominent figures including athletes from various sports leagues have joined as Team Ocean Captains to rally support among their followers. This initiative is one of many efforts by Ocean Conservancy to combat plastic pollution, having successfully mobilized nearly 19 million volunteers since its inception.

For nearly four decades, Ocean Conservancy has been leading initiatives aimed at cleaning our oceans and is a veteran of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). The participation of athletes and artists forms a unique bridge to rallying diverse advocates for ocean conservation.

Concluding Thoughts:

As the Protect Where We Play Tour kicks off, it heralds a new era of environmental responsibility in our sports and entertainment venues, potentially influencing how events are hosted in the future. Fans can now enjoy their beloved shows and games while contributing to a healthier planet—all thanks to a simple, yet impactful switch to reusable cups.

To learn more about the Protect Where We Play initiative or to stay updated on tour dates, visit Protect Where We Play.