If you are one of the billions of U2 fans, then you will most likely recognize the giant “claw” stage topper from their 360° Tour back in 2009. This monstrous stage decoration accompanied U2 to forty-four different stadiums which were part of seven different tour legs between June 30, 2009, and July 30, 2011. Each show would be performed in the round and was such a massive production, crews had to be on the scene at least three days before the show to get the stage put together. After the tour, the band was hoping for it to be transformed into a gathering place for people, and in this case, that place is an aquarium in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Now you’ll be able to see one of the biggest pieces of U2 history at Salt Lake City’s Loveland Living Planet Aquarium where not only does the 16 story recycled stage topper create a magical atmosphere when the sun goes down and its lights turn on but this repurposing was good for the environment. By recycling the claw, which is now called Ecco (Ecosystem Exploration Craft & Observatory) it prevented 760,000 pounds of CO2 from entering the atmosphere – the equivalent of conserving 35,500 gallons of gasoline emission.
Be sure to check out the video to get to know the new and improved Ecco!
