The Carbon Footprint of an Ice Rink: Understanding the Environmental Impact

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What is the carbon footprint of an ice rink?
A conventional or refrigerated ice rink of approximately 200m2, the average size of public ice rinks, installed outdoors during the winter in central Europe (cold climate) consumes 19,900 litres of water, 16,800kw of energy and emits 5.52 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere each month.
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There are ice rinks all around the world, ranging in size from little neighborhood rinks to huge Olympic-sized arenas. They offer many people a fun and thrilling pastime, but they also have an influence on the environment that should not be disregarded. This article will examine an ice rink’s carbon footprint and the factors that affect it.

In an ice rink, how thick is the ice?

Depending on the location and planned use of the ice rink, the thickness of the ice can change. The thickness of the ice is typically between 3/4 and 1 1/2 inches. This thickness makes it possible for skaters to move over the ice with ease and is strong enough to support the weight of several skaters and ice skates. Which chemicals are present in ice rinks?

Several chemicals are used to make and keep the ice in an ice rink. These include propylene glycol, which is added to the water to keep it from freezing at the surface, and ammonia, which is used to cool the ice. Although less prevalent, some rinks also use a brine mix of salt and water to cool the ice. How Big of an Ice Rink is an Olympic Size? 200 feet long and 100 feet wide is the size of an Olympic ice rink. A typical NHL rink is 200 feet long and 85 feet broad, thus this is bigger. In addition to providing greater space for skating, the larger size can hold more spectators for events like figure skating and ice hockey.

The Effects of Ice Rinks on the Environment

The energy used to make and maintain the ice, as well as the energy used to run the lights and other equipment inside the rink, are all included in the carbon footprint of an ice rink. This can include gasoline for Zambonis and other ice-resurfacing machinery, as well as the electricity used for heating, cooling, and refrigeration.

Many ice rinks are implementing more environmentally friendly procedures in an effort to lessen their carbon footprint. This can involve utilizing energy-efficient lighting and equipment, renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, and improved insulation to lower heating and cooling requirements.

In conclusion, while visiting an ice rink can be a thrilling and enjoyable experience, it also has an effect on the environment that should not be disregarded. We can continue to enjoy this pastime while also conserving the environment if we are aware of the carbon footprint of an ice rink and take sustainable steps to reduce it. Which bands performed at Whitley Bay Ice Rink is a subject for a another story, though!