Having delivered major events including Eurovision 2023 and the Labour Party Conference, Santos is also leading ACC Liverpool’s commitment to achieve Carbon Net Zero by 2030 – 20 years ahead of the industry target. Ahead of the Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit, where he will join a panel on Tackling Sustainability Requirements in an Increasingly Challenging Economic and Political Climate on Wednesday 11 February, he shares his insights.

What are the biggest pressures on arena operators pursuing sustainability today?

“The biggest pressures are undoubtedly cost, energy insecurity and policy uncertainty. As arena operators, there is an unspoken expectation to move faster on sustainability while simultaneously managing rising utility costs, inflationary pressures and tighter margins.

“There is also a lack of consistency in emissions reporting, alongside skills and data challenges. Understanding emissions properly and turning insight into action can be complex and confusing. Finally, achieving genuine progress requires buy-in from all stakeholders across the industry.”

What is enabling ACC Liverpool to target Carbon Net Zero by 2030?

“Our progress is driven by early commitment, strong governance and close alignment with the ambitions of Liverpool as a city. We prioritise energy efficiency across the campus, invest in renewable energy, and embed sustainability into procurement and supplier relationships.

“Data plays a critical role – accurate carbon measurement allows us to direct investment where it will have the greatest impact. Crucially, sustainability is not treated as a standalone project; it is embedded into decision-making across operations, finance and event delivery.”

How have large-scale events influenced your sustainability strategy?

“Large-scale events push systems to maximum capacity, making sustainability impacts highly visible. They reinforce the importance of early planning with promoters, broadcasters and partners to reduce waste, manage energy use and influence travel and logistics.

“These events also demonstrate that sustainability and spectacle are not mutually exclusive. Lessons learned are embedded into standard operating procedures, creating a legacy that improves everyday operations long after the event has finished. The large-scale, exceptional events are often where achieving sustainability excellence is easiest, as it features highly on the agenda.”

How do you balance sustainability with performance and fan experience?

“We focus on solutions that are invisible to the guest but impactful behind the scenes. Energy-efficient lighting, smart building controls and waste reduction systems do not detract from the fan experience – they often improve comfort and reliability.

“Where changes are visible, such as reusable cups or enhanced recycling, clear communication is essential to bring audiences with us. Sustainability works best when it enhances quality rather than restricting it.”

Which developments will most improve arena sustainability in the next five years?

“Smart energy management and metering systems will be key. The ability to pinpoint where energy is being used is essential to reducing wastage and improving efficiency.

“Increased use of plug-and-play solutions will be a game changer, reducing the amount of equipment tours transport between venues.

“Visitor transportation remains one of the industry’s biggest emissions challenges, as highlighted at Expedition One and Two summits. Technologies linking event tickets to public transport would make a significant difference.

“Finally, while not a technology, shifting industry-wide start and finish times slightly earlier could have a major impact by enabling greater use of public transport in the evenings.”

How do you stay agile amid political change while maintaining long-term goals?

“We focus on principles rather than politics. By aligning with science-based targets and best-practice standards, our strategy remains robust even as policy changes.

“Regular scenario planning, strong stakeholder engagement and close monitoring of regulatory developments allow us to adapt quickly. Most importantly, sustainability is embedded at board and executive level, ensuring long-term commitment regardless of short-term political shifts.”

What first steps should operators take to accelerate sustainability?

“Start with measurement and quick wins. Understanding your biggest sources of emissions is essential, and many efficiency improvements, such as LED upgrades, improved controls or waste reduction, deliver rapid payback.

“Engage staff early, as behavioural change costs little but delivers real impact. Collaboration is also crucial: work with local authorities, industry peers and suppliers. Sustainability does not require perfection from day one – it requires momentum and commitment. Breaking progress into manageable projects helps avoid delay.”

The Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit will be hosted at the NEC in Birmingham, UK, from 10-11 February 2026. Book your delegate pass today by clicking here.