Zero carbon in ice arenas with Marc Downing, MJMA, Canada
Marc’s presentation will cover game-changing strategies to reduce both embodied and operational carbon in ice arenas. In North America, these community hubs serve as the heart of many towns, hosting everything from hockey practices to movie nights. As we push toward a zero-emissions future, these buildings face unique challenges - especially given their energy-intensive operations.
Join Marc for a deep dive into practical solutions and visionary strategies for meeting zero-carbon goals in ice arenas.
Meet Marc Downing
Marc brings a unique passion for helping clients realize their vision, believing that “a great building will outlast us all.” His work focuses on creating durable, hybrid-use spaces that inspire communities for generations. Beyond architecture, Marc is also an accomplished musician with a deep appreciation for spaces that spark creativity and connection.
When: 14 November 4PM - 6PM (CET)
Where: ZOOM - The link will be sent to you after your registration on Eventbrite.
How much: Free of charge for IAKS Members / 70€ for Non-Members
Synthetic turf: Product environmental footprint rules with Prof. Alastair Cox, ESTC, UK
Synthetic turf offers long-lasting, high-performance surfaces that support sports activities in all weather conditions. But like any man-made product, it leaves an environmental footprint. Over the past four years, the ESTC has been working closely with the European Commission to develop Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) rules for synthetic turf. This groundbreaking initiative allows manufacturers to accurately assess and reduce the environmental impact of their products - from production to disposal.
The new PEF rules give consumers and buyers the tools they need to make informed, sustainable choices. For the first time, you can compare products based on their true environmental impact, enabling sustainability to play a central role in your decision-making process. Together, we can lead the way toward a greener, more sustainable future for synthetic turf and the communities that depend on it.
Meet Prof. Alastair Cox
With over 45 years of industry expertise, Alastair has dedicated his career to ensuring the highest standards in the synthetic turf industry. As a leader in testing and certification, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable practices across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. His collaboration with regulatory bodies, standards committees, and sports organizations has made him a true champion of innovation.
When: 19 November 3PM - 5PM (CET)
Where: ZOOM - The link will be sent to you after your registration on Eventbrite.
How much: Free of charge for IAKS Members / 70€ for Non-Members
Sustainability in the sports and leisure facilities industry with Mike Hall, FaulknerBrowns, UK
Sports and leisure buildings often represent significant carbon challenges for municipalities, consuming large amounts of energy and materials. From the long spans of arenas to the complex substructures of swimming pools, reducing embodied carbon can be a difficult task. And when we consider the whole life cycle of these often-inflexible facilities, the sustainability challenge becomes even greater. Mike will dive into key issues like benchmarks, best practices, and how to navigate sometimes misleading sustainability terminology. Most importantly, he’ll explore practical methodologies to create more sustainable sports and leisure facilities - showing how we can all play a role in driving meaningful change.
Meet Mike Hall
With extensive experience working alongside major sports governing bodies like FINA, UCI, IAAF, and ICF, Mike has a deep understanding of the unique demands placed on sports facilities. He’s also a member of the IAKS International Expert Aquatics Circle and a representative of the International Union of Architects. Mike is a passionate advocate for sustainable, active infrastructure in our towns and cities, and his insights are sure to inspire.
When: 20 November 3PM - 5PM (CET)
Where: ZOOM - The link will be sent to you after your registration on Eventbrite.
How much: Free of charge for IAKS Members / 70€ for Non-Members
Sustainability in stadiums with David Jarratt, Populous, UK
Stadiums and sports arenas are among the most carbon-intensive buildings, often used infrequently by large crowds. For instance, the last three FIFA World Cups each emitted an astonishing 2.2-2.8 million tonnes of carbon! It's crucial that we enhance sustainable design and construction practices in these facilities. The benefits are immense: not only will we help combat climate change, but we’ll also see reductions in energy consumption, construction costs, and insurance premiums, all while contributing to national and international emissions reduction targets set by organizations like FIFA and the IOC.
David will share how Populous is leading the charge with strategies that emphasize a values-based approach and the development of a net zero carbon design toolkit, ensuring optimum value for owners and stakeholders while addressing the urgent climate crisis.
This enlightening discussion isn’t just for architects, planners, or stadium managers - it’s a valuable opportunity for anyone involved in sports and leisure facilities. The insights gained from stadium projects can - and should - be adapted for our community sports and leisure spaces.
Meet David Jarratt
As the EMEA Sustainable Design Lead for Populous, David brings over two decades of global sustainability leadership to the table. His expertise lies in crafting and implementing long-term strategies that maximize benefits for all stakeholders, including investors, asset owners, building users, and the community. David’s commitment to innovation ensures that each project not only meets industry standards but also pushes the boundaries of sustainable design.
When: 21 November 3PM - 5PM (CET)
Where: ZOOM - The link will be sent to you after your registration on Eventbrite.
How much: Free of charge for IAKS Members / 70€ for Non-Members
Sustainability in pools and recreation centres with Mark Palmer, Max Fordham, UK
Swimming pools and leisure centres must deliver high-quality environments for a wide variety of activities. However, the construction and operation of these facilities can lead to significant energy consumption and environmental impacts. In his session, Mark will share innovative ideas on how we can maximize the benefits while minimizing the environmental footprint of our swimming pools and recreation centres.
Meet Mark Palmer
Mark is a Director of Engineering and the Sports Sector Leader at Max Fordham, bringing nearly 30 years of experience in designing high-performance, sustainable sports facilities. His impressive portfolio includes everything from Sport England's “optimum” sports halls to the Olympic Water Polo Arena for London 2012, and the multi-award-winning Oriam (Scotland's National Performance Centre).
Recently, he completed the Ravelin Sports Centre at the University of Portsmouth - one of the UK’s most sustainable ultra-low energy sports centres, boasting a BREEAM 'Outstanding' rating. Mark is also a proud member of the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard group for Sport & Leisure, showcasing his commitment to a greener future.
When: 26 November 3PM - 5PM (CET)
Where: ZOOM - The link will be sent to you after your registration on Eventbrite.
How much: Free of charge for IAKS Members / 70€ for Non-Members