Co-op Live Recognised as One the World's Leading Sustainable Arenas by A Greener Future

23 July 2025 - Press release

Co-op Live, the UK’s largest live entertainment arena, has been named A Greener Arena 2025, receiving a ‘Highly Commended’ status as part of A Greener Future (AGF) certification – recognising its strong commitment to protecting the planet.

The ‘Highly Commended’ certification, granted by independent sustainability experts A Greener Future, awards venues that go above and beyond to reduce their environmental footprint, support their communities, and lead the industry in innovation. After a full year of assessment, from May 2024 to May 2025, covering everything from carbon emissions and energy use to community impact and wellbeing, Co-op Live has been recognised as one of the leading arenas in the world for putting sustainability front and centre.

Built to put music first and with people and planet at its heart, Co-op Live is powered entirely by renewable energy and uses smart systems to reduce waste and conserve resources. The arena’s design includes rainwater-flushing toilets, low-energy lighting, and cutting-edge technology to manage power more efficiently. It’s also easy to get to sustainably, with excellent public transport connections, the CityLink Walking Route presented by The Climate Pledge, and 240 covered cycle spaces on site.

Being ‘Highly Commended’ under the A Greener Arena certification confirms Co-op Live’s place as one of the most forward-thinking venues in the world – not only redefining live entertainment, but helping shape a more sustainable future for the industry.

Guy Dunstan, Senior Vice President & General Manager at Co-op Live, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive the ‘Highly Commended’ award from A Greener Future. Sustainability isn’t just a feature of Co-op Live, it’s one of our founding principles. From renewable energy and rainwater reuse to inclusive design and community giving, we’ve built this arena to do things differently and set a new standard for live entertainment. Welcoming over one million visitors with over 100 shows in our first year demonstrates that great fan experiences and genuine environmental leadership can truly go hand in hand.”

A Greener Future assessors added: “Co-op Live opened in 2024 as an impressive new venue fully powered by renewable electricity, and harnessing solar energy and rainwater capture in its design. Surrounding landscaping extends to a new walking route to the city centre, working in partnership with Manchester City Council and Transport for Greater Manchester to improve the public realm not just for gig-goers but also local communities. The venue has also taken proactive steps to collaborate with artists on sustainability actions, such as providing fully plant-based catering at certain events. The venue also has a pledge to raise at least £1 million per year for the Co-op Foundation and other charities.”

The arena isn’t just environmentally aware – it’s people-focused too. Every level is step-free. There are hearing loops, audio enhancements, gender-neutral toilets, multi-faith prayer rooms, a quite space for those who need it, and even a dog spending room. Co-op Live was built to be welcoming, comfortable and accessible to all fans.

Food and drink inside the arena reflects the same values – curated and top-quality, with homegrown options and a strong focus on reducing waste. And with Co-op Live’s unique bowl-shaped design, fans can expect a live experience like no other – with an intimate feel designed to bring them closer to the action.

The venue’s commitment to their official charity partner, Co-op Foundation supports youth-led social change by funding vital initiatives such as the Foundation’s Young Gamechangers Fund.