We all love concerts, whether it’s going to them or playing a show ourselves. They are a place of creativity, passion, and connection that just makes us feel good — but this also has a significant environmental footprint. A single band’s concert can generate up to 38 tons of CO₂ (for a stadium show), equivalent to the emissions of about 10 persons per year. Fortunately, with a few conscious decisions, you can transform your gigs into sustainable concerts. Here’s how:
Ethical Ticketing & Green Travel for Fans
Choose an Ethical Ticketing Platform
Many ticketing platforms profit without reinvesting in social causes. Consider using platforms like Ticketree or TicketsConnected, which donates booking fees to sustainable projects.
Promote Public Transport
Encourage fans to use public transport, carpool, bike, or walk to your gigs. The carbon footprint calculation for The 1975’s shows revealed that around 75 % of emissions came from fan travel. Providing clear information on bus routes, train stations, or bike parking near your venue makes it easier for your audience to choose greener options.
Sustainable Concerts: Touring & Live Event Tips
Plan an Efficient Tour Route
Reducing the number of long-haul trips lowers your carbon footprint. Where possible, book gigs along a logical route to minimize unnecessary travel. If you can, tour by train or opt for smaller, fuel-efficient, or electric vehicles.
Travel Lighter
Bringing less equipment reduces fuel consumption. Share gear with other artists or venues to cut down on the load. If you need to rent a vehicle, choose an electric model.
Green Your Rider for Sustainable Concerts
Say No to Plastic
The live music industry contributes significantly to plastic waste, with festivals in the UK generating up to 23,500 tons of waste annually. Request no single-use plastics in your rider—this includes water bottles, cups, and cutlery. Instead, bring reusable bottles and ask venues to provide refill stations.
Go Local & Plant-Based
The meat and dairy industry accounts for nearly 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Specify vegetarian, vegan, and locally sourced food. This supports sustainable farming and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport.
Reduce Food Waste
Every single day 1 billion meals go to waste worldwide, contributing to up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Order only the amount of food you’ll actually eat and donate leftovers where possible. Share your eco-friendly rider choices on social media to inspire others.
If you need some inspiration the United Independent Music Agencies (UIMA) made a template for a green touring rider: Greener Touring Rider
Waste Management at Gigs
Set Up Clearly Labeled Bins
Recycling, compost, and general waste bins should be visible and accessible to fans and crew. If possible, donate leftovers and compost food waste and use biodegradable or reusable tableware.
Use Sustainable Merch
The apparel industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions. Merch is a big part of an artist’s revenue, but it doesn’t have to be wasteful. Opt for:
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- Organic cotton T-shirts
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- Reusable water bottles
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- Eco-friendly vinyl and CDs
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- Sustainable printing
Check also my blog article about sustainable band merch!
Stage Design & Energy Use in Sustainable Concerts
Use Recycled & Sustainable Materials
Your stage can be a statement! Choose decor and set elements made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials.
Power Your Show with Renewable Energy
Live concerts and festivals consume significant energy, ask venues if they use renewable energy sources. If they don’t, consider offsetting your energy consumption by investing in green energy initiatives.
Donate & Raise Awareness for Sustainable Concerts
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Use carbon footprint calculators to estimate your impact and invest in projects that help offset emissions. Organizations like Atmosfair or Climeco provide options for donations.
Support Environmental Causes
Consider donating a portion of ticket or merch sales to eco-friendly charities. Raising awareness among your fans can multiply the impact!
Final Thoughts
Sustainability isn’t about perfection—it’s about making better choices. Every step towards an eco-friendly gig, no matter how small, contributes to a greener future for the music industry. Share your sustainability efforts online and encourage fellow artists and fans to do the same. Together, we can make live music more sustainable!
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