Sustainability

Atlanta: Where Green Initiatives Meet Urban Life

Atlanta, known as The City in the Forest, is a leader in environmental sustainability, blending urban growth with green initiatives. The city is home to impressive energy-efficient venues such as: 

• LEED-certified Georgia World Congress Center 

• Mercedes-Benz Stadium – the first sports stadium to achieve LEED Platinum certification 

• State Farm Arena – the first sports and entertainment venue to be TRUE Platinum Certified Zero Waste  

Additionally, the City of Atlanta has launched its Clean Energy Plan, aiming to transition the city to 100 percent clean energy by 2035. 

Many businesses in Atlanta, including Delta Air Lines’ carbon neutrality goals and Coca-Cola’s water neutrality initiative, reflect the city’s broad commitment to sustainability. Hotels across the city also prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable guest options. Atlanta’s attractions also lead the way in sustainability — venues like the Georgia Aquarium focus on marine conservation, and State Farm Arena hosts zero-waste events. 

MARTA offers an easy, sustainable way to navigate the city, with connections to key attractions, event venues and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Path 400 in Buckhead and the Atlanta Beltline’s 22 miles of trails and parks invite visitors to explore the city by bike or on foot. The city’s more than 300 parks and gardens, such as Westside Park and Piedmont Park, offer spaces to relax and connect with nature. Atlanta is dedicated to conservation, making it a sustainable destination for all. 

Fast Facts 

• Atlanta boasts an urban tree canopy coverage of 46 percent, earning its nickname as The City in the Forest. 

• The city is ranked No. 4 in the country for Energy Star-certified buildings, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

• Since August of 2022, Georgia has led the nation in clean energy investment and new energy projects. 

• Restaurants Bacchanalia and The CHASTAIN have earned MICHELIN Green Star recognition for their commitment to sustainability. 

• Atlanta’s Sustainable Building Ordinance requires LEED certification for all major renovations and new construction of city-owned facilities larger than 5,000 square feet. 

• In 2023, Electric Owl Studios opened as the world’s first LEED Gold-certified film studio campus.