Federer wins again! And so does Serena, the Bryan twins, and more!

The US Open finished up last night with the Men's Singles bout between Roger Federer and Andy Murray. If you had the chance to venture out to Queens to see any of this year's matches you may have noticed a few additions to the American Express or Evian booths. Thanks to a multi-year partnership between the NRDC and the USTA, the U.S. Open reworked its operations to allow for some eco-friendly initiatives. From specially designed organic tees, to renewable wind power and napkins made from 90% post consumer content, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center took a stab at decreasing their carbon footprint while increasing their stance as a champion for the environment within the sports world.

Last year, I had the opportunity to see US Open firsthand, though not as a spectator. My first introduction to the US Open, and really tennis in any capacity, was working a temporary job at the Lacoste store just below Arthur Ashe stadium. Though the experience didn't necessarily tempt me to take up the game (t-shirt selling doesn't make you too energetic), it did make me realize the massive impact that just a few environmentally friendly changes could have on an event this size. It's estimated that during the two weeks of the U.S. Open more than 700,000 fans visit the massive compound. Just placing a few recycling bins around to gather all the water bottles promises a huge reduction in the waste created (and nerds like me won't have to carry their bottles all the way home to make sure they're recycled). This year's fans also had the opportunity to pick up wallet sized eco-tips, win $4 metrocards, and watch PSAs from tennis greats like
Billie Jean King, Venus Williams, and the Brady brothers.

Check out the US Open website to learn more about their environmental overhaul and be sure to read their tips as well as an interview with the NRDC's Allen Hershkowitz.