While we’re all well-versed in the positive impact the live arts have on communities, families, and individuals, a new trend is suggesting at least one way that arts organizations should reduce a different kind of impact: the environmental impact of live events.
Back in March, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts announced its initiative to become a zero-waste and carbon-neutral organization. Said Wolf Trap President Terre Jones to the National Press Club (speech available in PDF):
I believe the arts have a role; have an obligation to inspire our sustainable future because this collective of visionaries has always communicated the relevance of current events and has long been a bastion for causes of all types, from social justice to education. So now is the time for us to take seriously our role in environmental responsibility.
Wolf Trap has already begun the process with a national advisory group and an assessment of their environmental footprint (see their press release). Next steps will include minimizing that impact throughout their operations, and positioning the organization as an environmental model and resource for artists and arts presenters across the country.
In related news, the Live Earth concert event scheduled for July 7 will follow a new set of Green Event Guidelines, designed to ”holistically address the key areas of impact of a large live event — including recycling and composting, food and beverages, packaging, transportation, energy, water usage, and the event site itself. The guidelines also place special emphasis on measurable improvements.”
Wolf Trap and Live Earth may be large and national organizations, but their initiatives should encourage the question at even the smallest arts group: How green are you?
We’re pleased to report our local festival, Castlemaine State Festival, in regional Victoria, Australia, decided to ‘go green’ for its ten day, 90 events festival. Local traders, festival administration and audience all got involved with a range of initiatives like free bicycles to get to events – it’s a small town!- and traders buying credits etc. It was a terrific initiative, and as far as I know, the only one to do this in Australia so far.
Great article Andrew, I have a client who is designing a summer music festival which will take place on an environmental/wildlife land preserve they own. Ever since our first discussion, everything about the festival – from venue design traffic flow, and noise levels – have impacted every decision.
I’m pleased to say that we are coming up with some very unique solutions that respect the surrounding environment and actually enhance the concert experience. I’m excited to share some details about the project (scheduled to begin in 2010) once a few more pieces take shape.