RAC Arena Pioneers Sustainability as WA's First Certified Green Venue
RAC Arena has made history in Western Australia by becoming the first venue in the state to be officially certified as a "Green Venue" by Green Music Australia. This prestigious recognition celebrates the arena's comprehensive and impactful sustainability initiatives, which have set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility in the live entertainment industry.
Remarkable Waste Diversion Achievements
Since the beginning of 2026, RAC Arena has been achieving extraordinary results in waste management. New data reveals that the venue is now diverting more than 98 percent of its waste from landfill by volume, significantly surpassing its initial goal of 70 percent. This impressive accomplishment has been made possible through a multi-faceted approach that includes the enforcement of compostable packaging, the installation of dedicated green bins for organic waste, and the strategic implementation of reusable stack cups at all bar outlets.
The introduction of these reusable cups, which stack conveniently for easier handling, began back in 2019 and has since become a visible symbol of the arena's commitment to reducing single-use plastics. Additionally, in 2021, RAC Arena launched the Containers for Change program, which has already generated over $100,000 in donations for charity partners, including Salvation Army WA, further embedding sustainability into its community impact efforts.
Earning Top Marks in Green Certification
Under Green Music Australia's Green Venue Certification program, which was launched in 2025, RAC Arena received a score of four stars. This rating places it on par with the current top-ranking venue, ICC Sydney, and highlights the arena's exceptional performance across a range of key selection criteria. These criteria encompass energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, sustainable food and drink options, and responsible procurement practices.
Michael Scott, the General Manager of RAC Arena, expressed immense pride in this achievement. "Part of our mission is to make a positive difference in the community we operate in, and this acknowledgement demonstrates we're taking the right steps to reduce our venue's environmental footprint," he stated. "This achievement highlights the arena's exceptional environmental strategies and initiatives, and our ambitious plan to set the new standard for sustainability excellence in the live entertainment industry in Perth and beyond."
Industry Recognition and Future Implications
Emma Bosworth, the National Programs Manager at Green Music Australia, commended RAC Arena for its proactive approach. "It is encouraging to see a venue with a diverse range of waste streams taking such powerful steps towards reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfill," she remarked. "The reusable stack cups are a great visible reminder of the venue's commitment to sustainability. Congratulations to the RAC Arena team on achieving four stars."
This certification not only underscores RAC Arena's leadership in environmental stewardship but also serves as an inspiring model for other venues across Australia. By integrating sustainability into its core operations, from waste reduction to community donations, RAC Arena is paving the way for a greener future in the entertainment sector, demonstrating that large-scale venues can successfully balance top-tier events with profound ecological responsibility.
