The Cleveland Conserves Campaign is an effort by the City of Cleveland and local environmental groups to cut waste, save money and boost the local economy. Calling 2011 "The Year of Energy Efficiency," these groups are promoting energy conservation efforts to individuals and businesses.

The Cleveland Indians are among the local businesses championing the initiative. The Tribe has had a comprehensive recycling program since Jacobs Field opened in 1994. The Indians were the first major league team to install solar power at their stadium, a project completed in 2007. They have also installed LED lighting throughout the park.

This year, the Tribe is expanding its composting efforts at Progressive Field. The Indians began composting the waste from concession stands, restaurants and the clubhouse at the end of the 2010 season. In 2011, they will begin composting from the main seating areas.

"Cleaning crews will do three walk-throughs -- for organics, plastics and trash," explains Brad Mohr, Assistant Director of Ballpark Operations for the Cleveland Indians. "It's cheaper to compost than it is to send organic materials to a landfill."

In 2010, the team composted 2.5 tons of food waste from concession stands, restaurants and the club house in only six games. Cornstarch-based beer and soda cups, cutlery, and hot-serve cups are used throughout the ball park, in the front office and in the press box.

The team's marketing message -- Our Tribe is Green ... Are you in the Tribe? -- encourages fans to participate in green activities, including recycling. "We look at ourselves as a business and community leader," says Mohr.

So far, the Indians are pleased with the investment they've made in conservation measures. The team recycled over 153 tons of materials in 2009, reducing trash pickup by over 60 percent, from 254 trash pickups in 2007 to 97 pickups in 2009.

Conservation measures not only protect the environment, they also protect a business' bottom line. The Indians invested $30,000 in balers to make cardboard or plastic into giant cubes. Selling the cubes along with money savings from reduced trash hauls paid off the initial investment within four months.

Source: Brad Mohr
Writer: Lee Chilcote