Major League Baseball is developing, in collaboration with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), a software system to collect and analyze stadium operations data to develop and distribute environmental best practice information across the 30 Clubs.

Data collection will cover energy consumption, waste management and recycling, water consumption and paper usage. Clubs will be able to input their monthly numbers in a variety of subcategories within each area, which will then be analyzed in order to share best practices across the League.

"Baseball is a game of statistics and the League's commitment to systematically document and measure environmental practices of all Clubs at all stadiums underscores the leadership and commitment of MLB to make environmental progress. All professional leagues should follow this important example," said Dr. Allen Hershkowitz, Senior Scientist, Natural Resources Defense Council.

In addition, the League said it will host a variety of greening events and incorporate environmental initiatives into their games throughout the season to recognize the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day on April 22.

"Major League Baseball has responsibilities to our fans and society at large that go beyond the playing field," said Baseball Commissioner, Allan H. (Bud) Selig. "Our Clubs have made a commitment to sustainability and are leaders in their communities raising awareness and educating fans not just on Earth Day, but everyday about environmental stewardship."

Major League Baseball began working with the NRDC in 2006 to identify and promote better environmental practices. The efforts have included purchasing renewable energy credits, fan education, recycling with MLB Green Teams, building playgrounds from recycled materials, eco-friendly community activities and prioritizing environmental attributes when selecting paper and hospitality items.

The collaboration also led to the creation of web-based software tools tailored to each MLB Club featuring advice and resources for every aspect of a Club's operations. The program offers specific local advice concerning such topics as energy use, purchasing, concession operations, water use, recycling and transportation.

Reprinted with permission from Sustainable Business