At Daikin, we are proud to be at the forefront of innovation and sustainability – not just for buildings or cold chain, but also in sports. At the Short Track World Championships 2024 ice skating in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, we provided the technology to create the most sustainable temporary ice rink ever.
Daikin’s chiller units that were used in the construction of the temporary ice rink played an essential role in creating the most sustainable track, setting new standards for sustainability in temporary ice facilities with extreme levels of energy efficiency. Under the guidance of the ice master, the chillers allowed for the rapid creation of high-quality ice on which the absolute world top short track skaters showcased their performances. At the same time, thanks to their innovative technologies, energy consumption was reduced by 80%, marking a significant development towards more sustainable skating events worldwide.
Holding the world championship on the most sustainable temporary ice rink ever was made possible thanks to a collaborative effort involving Daikin Netherlands, alongside other dedicated partners, all striving to make the sport of speed skating more environmentally friendly. We were also honoured with the visit and support of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander.
The first idea for this groundbreaking project dates back to 2022 when Jeroen Kraaij, Commercial Director of the Royal Dutch Skating Association (KNSB), Edwin Hoogerwerf, Managing Director of Daikin Netherlands, and Nathalie Du Bruin, Partnership Manager at Rotterdam Ahoy, attended a sports sponsorship congress in Seattle. Inspired by a presentation on sustainability at the Climate Pledge Arena, the trio envisioned creating the most sustainable ice rink for the World Short Track Championships in Rotterdam. What ensued was not just a mere adoption of existing techniques but an independent exploration and amalgamation of possibilities, driven by the shared ambition to make a tangible difference.
For the KNSB, the imperative to develop sustainable ice rinks is paramount. This extends beyond the championship arena to include smaller, temporary rinks in villages and cities, ensuring accessibility for skating enthusiasts while championing environmental responsibility. With Rotterdam Ahoy already championing sustainable events, our partnership synergizes technological expertise with Ahoy’s eco-friendly facilities, paving the way for a blueprint of the ice rink of the future.
Sustainability isn't just about the ice rink; it is about redefining the paradigm of event organisation. Stringent CO2 emissions norms and sustainability guidelines necessitate innovative solutions, and our collaboration aims to set a new standard. Daikin's involvement extends beyond sponsorship; it is about leveraging our experience and technological prowess to foster sustainability within the sports industry.
(Left to right) Mr. Jae Youl Kim (ISU President), Mr. Cees Juffermans (Tournament Director), Mr. Edwin Hoogerwerf (Managing Director Daikin Netherlands), His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, Mr. Herman de Haan (President of the KNSB)
Through innovations such as smart variable-speed compressors and heat recovery systems, we're significantly reducing energy consumption and paving the way for a greener future. Moreover, our commitment extends to knowledge-sharing and showcasing these advancements to a global audience, including a delegation from the Olympic Winter Games in Milan/Cortina D’Ampezzo.
While the financial implications of these advancements are still being evaluated, the benefits are clear. Not only do we anticipate significant energy savings and cost efficiencies, but we're also spearheading a scalable model that redefines the sustainability landscape of event organization.
As we successfully passed the ultimate test at the World Championships, we're confident that our collective efforts will not only elevate the sport of skating but also set a new benchmark for sustainability in sports events. At Daikin, we're proud to lead the change towards a more sustainable future, one partnership at a time.
