Can the music industry ever go completely green?

While it’s far from the most heinous polluter (that medal goes to the construction sector), the music industry has still contributed a fair amount to the climate crisis. In recent years, however, the industry has embarked on something of a noble journey towards greater environmental sustainability.

From music festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella to touring and merchandise production, various aspects of the industry are being transformed to lessen their environmental impact. The onus is on individual musicians and management companies alike to find solutions. By choosing responsible suppliers, such as guitar insurance providers or logistics partners, and championing sustainable practices themselves – musicians can influence others in a way that few industries can.

One recent example is perennial stadium pop band Coldplay, whose “Music of the Spheres” world tour contained kinetic dancefloors and exercise bikes that channelled kinetic energy from the fans directly into the stage show. The result was the most sustainable tour ever staged and while that might be an extreme example, there are signs that the entire industry could be taking notice.

Although achieving complete carbon neutrality may seem like a dream, significant progress has already been made.

Festival season

One notable area of change is the emergence of green music festivals. These events, such as the Green Gathering and Green Man festivals, are using renewable energy power to meet their energy needs. Attendees are also encouraged to travel in environmentally beneficial ways, such as carpooling or using public transportation, further reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation. They are also asked to only bring biodegradable wares and single-use plastics are banned across the sites.

Going green on tour

When it comes to touring, meanwhile, many artists and bands are exploring ways to make their tours more environmentally friendly. This includes selecting venues with sustainable practices, using energy-efficient vehicles for transportation and encouraging the use of public transportation for both the crew and spectators. These initiatives not only reduce the environmental impact but also inspire fans to adopt more sustainable behaviours.

Sustainable practices

The music industry is also prioritising the use of sustainable materials and production techniques for merchandise. Musicians and merchandisers alike are choosing more organic, fair-trade, and recycled materials and using eco-friendly printing techniques. By embracing these practices, they aim to reduce waste, support ethical sourcing, and minimise their ecological footprint.

The spirit of collaboration

Collaboration and industry cooperation play a significant role in promoting sustainable practices in the music business. Organisations like Julie’s Bicycle and the Green Music Initiative provide platforms for artists and businesses to collaborate and share knowledge on sustainable practices. They also offer certification programs that recognise and reward those who are dedicated to minimising their environmental influence. These initiatives foster a sense of community and encourage continuous improvement within the industry.

While achieving a green future for the music industry may be a complex task, the industry is actively working to lessen its environmental impact and the more work all corners of the industry put in, the better things will get. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement, musicians and those pulling the string behind the curtain can pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future for the entire entertainment industry.