Introduction
This document contains a set of guidelines and sustainable practice recommendations for event organisers, artists and their teams in the music industry. These guidelines have been developed to work in conjunction with the Sustainability Clauses included in artists' booking contracts to aid all parties in using best endeavours to achieve a desired lower impact business practice.
Energy
- Use energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and equipment backstage and in production including show design.
- Use Shore power for touring vehicles.
- Unplug electronics when not in use.
- Power down equipment when not in use.
- Use renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, whenever possible for events and tours.
- Partner with venues that have implemented sustainable energy practices and work with venues and festivals to prioritise the use of (ideally renewable) mains grid power and batteries to displace generators.
Waste
- Minimise waste by using reusable water bottles, food containers, and cutlery for artist and crew catering.
- Compost backstage and customer food waste and other organic materials.
- Recycle paper, plastic, metal, and glass backstage and at events.
- Dispose of hazardous waste properly, such as batteries (use rechargeable batteries wherever feasible) and cleaning supplies.
- Work with venues to implement waste reduction and recycling programmes.
- When designing a show, work with creative directors and fabricators to maximise the use of reused, hired, or recycled materials and have a plan for reusing or recycling any set materials, costumes, props at the end of a tour or show.
Water
- Work with venues who are implementing water conservation measures such as rainwater collection, water efficient appliances and irrigation systems.
- Food and Catering
- Offer plant-based and locally sourced food options for artists, crew and customer catering.
- Reduce food waste by composting, donating leftovers, and using responsible portion control.
- Encourage vendors to use sustainable packaging for food and beverages (ideally reusable cups) at events.
- Work with venues to offer sustainable food and beverage options.
Transportation
- Use fuel-efficient vehicles or public transportation whenever possible for artist and crew travel.
- Consider using biofuels (ensure due diligence on sustainably sourced and certified fuels) or electric vehicles for artist and crew.
- Work with local transportation providers to offer sustainable options for fans attending events, such as shuttle buses or bicycle parking.
- Consider transport when routing to enable the use of more sustainable forms of tour travel and transport.
- Design shows to fit into fewer trucks
Merchandise / Materials
- Use sustainable materials, such as recycled paper, organic cotton, and ethically sourced and low impact bamboo, for merchandise and promotional items and work with your vendors to minimise overstock
- Choose biodegradable or compostable materials for disposable items, such as cups, plates, and utensils.
- Avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.
Education and Engagement
- Educate fans about sustainable practices through signage, social media, and educational materials.
- Empower crew to put sustainability at the heart of your tour planning, including through green memos, training and regular meetings.
- Partner with local environmental organisations to promote sustainability initiatives at events.
- Encourage fans to adopt sustainable practices in their own lives.
- Leverage the power of arts and culture to influence positive behaviours.
Conclusion
By adopting the refined LIVE Green Artist Green Rider, artists and their teams in the music industry can make a significant contribution to reducing the environmental impact of touring and live events. By working togehter, we can create a more sustainable future for music. Thank you for your care and attention on these vital matters.