Going Green
The Classic Center and Akins Ford Arena remain committed to our green initiatives, which aim to operate our facilities in the most energy-efficient manner possible and utilize green products and services when appropriate.
We are dedicated to sustainability and environmentally responsible practices. By operating our facilities in the most energy-efficient way possible and utilizing green products and services, we continually strive to reduce our environmental footprint and promote a healthier planet.
How We Prioritize Sustainability & Efficiency
Green Meetings
ConventionSouth recognized The Classic Center as a Green Meetings Site. Meeting planners can trust that Green Meeting Sites, approved by ConventionSouth cities, will prioritize energy conservation, waste reduction, recycling, and the use of local products. Approved organizations assist groups in reducing their carbon footprint while in town for the meeting.
LEED Certified
Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our LEED-certified facilities:
- The 8,000-square-foot Atrium, completed in 2013, is proudly LEED Silver Certified.
- The new Akins Ford Arena is designed to achieve LEED Certification, further symbolizing our dedication to sustainable development.
LEED Certification is a globally recognized achievement in sustainability, emphasizing energy efficiency, resource conservation, and innovation.
Clean Energy
In 2019, The Classic Center installed a 5.2 kW solar array, which provides clean energy to The Classic Center Theatre. Coupled with other measures, including newly installed LED lighting, The Classic Center reduced its energy consumption by over 20% starting in 2017.
In 2024, The Classic Center expanded the solar power array, adding 1,600 solar panels on the roof of Akins Ford Arena and existing buildings to create the largest municipal solar energy system in Georgia.
Recycling Program
The Recycling Program is committed to staff and visitor participation and includes cardboard, paper, plastics, glass, aluminum, toner cartridges, wooden pallets, and electronics.
Smoke-Free Facility
We are a 100% smoke-free facility, using regularly replaced pleated air filters and energy-saving heat recovery units for fresh air capture.
Eliminating Emissions
Nine Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations are available for all visitors. These include eight Level 2 charging stations and one Level 3 fast-charging station, ensuring a range of options to meet the needs of different EVs.
Additionally, our prime downtown location places you within walking distance of hotels, restaurants, and local attractions, reducing the need to drive during your visit and contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency throughout our campus is ensured through audits by Georgia Power, the use of LED lighting with motion sensors inside and outside, climate control systems programmed to adjust based on occupancy, and solar energy harvesting.
Going Green
Our tree canopy is a facility property, established with dozens of mature trees within the landscape design. These trees contribute to reducing carbon dioxide pollutants, stormwater run-off control, and soil infiltration while providing a pleasing sense of space and place.
