#USA #Chicago #Culligan #Chicago Bulls #United Center

Culligan International and Chicago Teams Revolutionize Water Sustainability

In a remarkable collaboration aimed at environmental stewardship, Culligan International has partnered with the United Center, home to the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, to transform how water is consumed at one of the busiest platforms for entertainment in the nation. This partnership was initiated in September 2024, with the bold goal of drastically reducing single-use plastic water bottles and enhancing the overall experience for fans attending games, concerts, and other events.

A Year of Impact

The results from the first year of this partnership have been nothing short of impressive. Together, these Chicago institutions have successfully avoided the use of nearly 600,000 single-use plastic water bottles. This achievement stems from a strategic implementation of innovative hydration solutions, including the sale and distribution of aluminum water bottles and convenient refill stations throughout the United Center. In addition to minimizing plastic waste, the new initiatives have set a precedent for sustainability, serving as a template for other venues across the country.

Culligan’s focus on creating a circular economy is evident through its successful recycling programs. Over 527,000 aluminum cans were collected, which diverted over 15,000 pounds of waste from landfills. Consequently, these efforts preserved more than 2,000 cubic feet of landfill space while avoiding significant carbon emissions—36 million grams of CO₂, to be precise—and conserving approximately 6,700 gallons of oil. This proactive approach highlights Culligan’s commitment to meaningful environmental change and reflects its belief that sustainable practices equate to better business.

Al Hamood, the chief financial and administrative officer at Culligan International, expressed pride in the substantial impact achieved within the partnership's first year. He stated, "To achieve such significant results in our first year demonstrates the power of our purpose, proving sustainable water solutions enhance fan experiences and reduce plastic waste in our hometown."

Redefining the Fan Experience

Transforming the water consumption practices at the United Center also aimed to redefine the fan experience. Throughout the season, fans saw an increase in accessible drinking water sources, including branded Culligan refilling stations, upgraded drinking fountains, and recyclable aluminum bottles available at every concession stand. This initiative not only improved the quality of hydration options for attendees but also instilled responsible drinking behaviors, promoting eco-consciousness among fans.

Educational materials, signage, and new recycling infrastructures supported these initiatives, fostering a culture of sustainability within the venue. The United Center’s commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences was echoed by Joe Myhra, the chief operating officer, who noted that this partnership empowers fans to make environmentally conscious decisions.

Recognized for Excellence

The effectiveness of this collaboration has not gone unnoticed. The partnership was awarded the 2025 Best in Show for Activation at Events and Venues by the Sponsorship Marketing Association Excellence Awards. This recognition underscores the substantial influence of their combined efforts in engaging fans and enhancing their event experiences—proof that socially responsible initiatives can positively impact the community and the environment.

Looking Ahead

As the official water provider for Bulls Fest 2025, Culligan continued its commitment to sustainability by ensuring access to water outside the arena, dispensing over 1,056 liters at refill stations and further avoiding the use of more than 15,000 single-use plastic bottles. The introduction of a reusable water cup program at this event also contributed to diminishing single-use waste.

Culligan International, along with the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, aims to expand on this success in the future by continually enhancing sustainable practices and transforming water experiences that matter for both fans and the environment.

In conclusion, this partnership illustrates the power of collaboration in driving impactful change and serves as a model for how organizations can come together to tackle pressing sustainability challenges. With continued efforts, they are paving the way for greener practices in the sports and entertainment industry and beyond.