South America to gain first climate-neutral arena
South America’s first climate-neutral arena is slated to open in Paraguay in 2028.
The 15,000-capacity Smart Arena Net Zero is planned for a site close to downtown Asunción on the banks of the Paraguay River, near the newly built Héroes del Chaco Bridge.
Prior to that, a 7,000-capacity arena called Music House will be built on the site to serve as “proof of concept” for the broader project, according to the president of Smart Arena Entertainment and local promoter, Walter Ayala.
“It will incorporate the sustainability pillars of Smart Arena Net Zero from day one – clean energy, waste management, electric mobility, smart design and EV charging stations. It will also encourage healthy living by including parking areas for bicycles and electric motorcycles,” said Ayala.
Music House is set to open in the first quarter of 2026, while construction on Smart Arena Net Zero is scheduled to begin in 2027 to open in late 2028.
A 7,000-capacity arena will be built on the site first to serve as “proof of concept”
Entirely privately funded, the full development of Smart Arena Net Zero is currently expected to cost $208 million (£153.5m/€180.5m).
The firm says it’s also seeking strategic partners who not only provide capital but also share the long-term vision and sustainability values of Smart Arena Net Zero. This includes potential naming-rights sponsors and founding partners willing to contribute capital and expertise.
In addition to the venues, the site will offer a range of entertainment options, including a wax museum dedicated to music history, a walk of fame, themed restaurants, a convention centre, and a hotel.
The project will be designed by HOK, the global architecture firm behind venues such as the Las Vegas Sphere, New York’s Yankee Stadium and London’s Wembley Stadium.
The world’s first climate-neutral arena, Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, US, was opened in 2021 by Oak View Group and Amazon.
Germany’s first climate-neutral arena, MUCcc – Munich, is currently in the works, but an opening date is yet to be confirmed.
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