HVO at COP29: How can sports stadiums go green?

In line with its sustainability commitments, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company has announced that they are integrating sustainable energy solutions at the conference venue to reduce environmental impact of the event. As a key element of this strategy, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) will power parts of Baku Stadium, the main COP29 venue. Feels fitting, considering the objective of the event. On the other hand, for a climate conference we should expect nothing less. 

The COP conference follows a sustainability policy centered around seven key commitments, with a primary focus on achieving carbon neutrality through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and emissions offsetting. 

One major initiative under these commitments is the selection of HVO as an alternative fuel for powering most parts of the conference venues. This low-carbon biofuel is derived from renewable sources and contributes to lower levels of pollutants, such as particulate matter, NOx, and SOx, improving air quality at and around the venue. Alongside HVO, all other energy needs of the venue will be supplied from renewable energy sources during the conference. 

Powering venues sustainably: Is HVO the answer? 

High-capacity venues often are significant CO₂e emitters due to their extensive energy needs for lighting, heating, cooling, and equipment operations.  

To put this in perspective, Manchester City football club reported annual emissions of 1,297 tCO₂e in 2021. Globally, the football industry alone is estimated to generate over 30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year—equivalent to the total emissions of a country like Denmark. 

When you factor in attendee transport, large-scale food services, and single-use items, emissions quickly ramp up. Waste and ongoing maintenance add further environmental impact, underscoring the need for sustainable alternatives like HVO and other forms of renewable energy to help venues reduce emissions and work toward carbon neutrality. 

HVO’s adaptability makes it an ideal alternative fuel choice for venues aiming to decarbonise. It can seamlessly replace fossil diesel in existing engines and infrastructure without the need for modifications. 

Even incremental steps can create lasting change, and sustainable biofuels like HVO—already proven impactful in other sectors—can significantly drive down emissions in the event and entertainment sector. 

For event venues, switching to HVO offers an immediate way to reduce carbon emissions, not only for on-site power but also for transportation within and to the event venue. With its compatibility across various applications, HVO can fuel shuttle services, equipment, and temporary generators—setting a new benchmark for sustainable event management and demonstrating practical solutions for reducing the environmental footprint of large gatherings. 

Action today, impact tomorrow 

While discussions at COP29 have laid the groundwork for a U.N.-backed global carbon market by approving carbon credit quality standards, talk alone won’t reduce emissions. Broader climate finance negotiations are essential, and for GoodFuels, we know that true impact comes from action. 

For us, every day is Decarbonisation Day. Alongside our partners and industry leaders, we’re cutting emissions in global shipping by replacing fossil fuels with cleaner alternatives, achieving an 80–90% reduction in lifecycle emissions. The future matters, but so do the solutions we have today. While others continue talking, we’re proving the power of action through real, measurable impact.