A Glasgow arena has become the first live entertainment venue in the world to receive a Commended status for its Greener Arena accreditation.

OVO Hydro received the award from A Greener Future (AGF), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping events, festivals, and venues worldwide become more sustainable.

The commendation recognises the arena's forward-thinking sustainability efforts and significant improvements in reducing negative and increasing positive environmental and social impacts.

The certification was granted after a thorough assessment of various aspects such as transport, energy and power, waste, water usage, local environment, CO2, and food and beverages.

The certification was granted after a thorough assessment of various aspects  (Image: Frame PR) The OVO Hydro scored highly in several areas including a 21 per cent reduction in air travel for business, the introduction of reusable Stack Cups, and a no air freighting policy.

Debbie McWilliams, managing director of strategy and people at the SEC, said: "We take our environmental responsibility very seriously and are on an ambitious journey to achieve our net zero 2030 goal.

"Achieving Commended status for the OVO Hydro shows our plans are working and that our commitment to the sustainability of our business is a top priority."

Lucy Scrase from AGF said: "The OVO Hydro has demonstrated a passionate drive to deliver a greener arena and a focus on improving practices going forwards."

She praised the venue's efforts in equality and diversity, health and wellbeing, and local community engagement.

James Watts, head of sponsorship at OVO, headline sponsor of the Hydro, said: "We’re incredibly proud that the OVO Hydro has achieved Commended status as part of their renewed AGF’s Greener Arena accreditation.

"We’re delighted to partner with a venue that is leading the way within the events industry - demonstrating a deep responsibility to the environment through its sustainable actions and an ambitious roadmap to net zero by 2030."