Gold Medal Environmental announced the significant role that an onsite biodigester served in securing LEED Gold Certification at Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. To date, more than 101,000 pounds, or 50 tons, of food waste has already been diverted from area landfills. 

Food waste currently represents more than one-third of landfilled waste in the United States. The Gold Medal Environmental biodigester is a technology-backed solution and significant component of the Eagle’s Go Green program.

Aerobic digestion utilizes oxygen, microorganisms and warm water to break food waste down into a liquid that can be safely discharged into the sanitary sewer system. This process furthers sustainability goals by eliminating the need for hauling, storing and processing.

Awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is a popular global program for green building certification with four levels, from a base certification to silver, gold and platinum. Lincoln Financial Field earned gold, operating 100 percent on clean energy, diverting 99 percent of waste from landfills and phasing out plastics at concession stands.

The Eagles' Go Green program, which began with the stadium opening in 2003 and just a few recycling bins, has grown to include stadium-wide composting and the utilization of an onsite biodigester. The combined initiatives contribute to the diversion of 4,000 tons of waste each year.

“We are thrilled to be part of such a meaningful program,” said Michael Schmidt, executive vice president of strategic growth and development at Gold Medal Environmental, in a statement. “As exemplified by the Go Green program, businesses and institutions can make a significant positive impact on the environment.”