Twins announce green efforts on Earth Day

ST. PETERSBURG -- In honor of Earth Day on Tuesday, the Twins announced results of their ongoing green efforts as they continue to seek ways to improve the sustainability of Target Field.

"The Minnesota Twins organization believes our future success -- both on and off the field -- is built on a business model that embraces operational efficiency, environmental stewardship and social responsibility," said Twins president Dave St. Peter. "Through the following efforts, we have reduced our overall impact on the environment while we continue to seek ways to improve the sustainability of Target Field."

Through a custom-designed rain water recycle system provided by Minneapolis-based Pentair, the Twins have captured, purified and reused more than 3,133,892 total gallons of rainwater, drastically reducing the use of municipal water at Target Field. The majority of the recycled rainwater was used to wash down the seating bowl attached to the main concourse.

Through aggressive recycling and waste-to-energy programs, the Twins have also kept more than 3,761 tons of waste out of local landfills since 2011.

The Twins, along with Delaware North Company, have also partnered with Rock and Wrap It Up! Inc. to donate unused food from Target Field to local charities. Throughout the three-year partnership, the Twins have donated 108,993 cased meats, 15,289 hamburgers and 7,095 chicken breasts.

With the All-Star Game set to be played at Target Field on July 15, the Twins will incorporate several environmentally sensitive efforts, including public service announcements about "going green." All-Star Green Teams will also be on hand throughout All-Star Week events wearing branded organic cotton T-shirts and circulating throughout the ballpark collecting recyclable materials.

Less than two years after being named the Greenest Ballpark in America and earning LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Silver certification for new construction, the Twins were also the first professional sports franchise to also attain LEED Silver Certification for the operation and maintenance of their facility.

"As we move forward, the Twins are committed to maintaining our focus on environmental sustainability," St. Peter said. "While we can always improve, we're proud of our efforts in 2013 and are looking forward to doing even more in 2014."