Ever thought of a greener way of producing your music? Perhaps a carbon neutral album? Promotional and distribution measures? Well, look no further! Cue composer Wojtek, producing a carbon neutral album and marketing it - having been there, done that and proven this is possible. Of the aptly titled album ‘Atmosphere’, Wojtek says that it “refers on the one hand to the climate crisis as I believe it is humankind's greatest challenge right now. On the other hand, it also refers to a very characteristic mood, feeling or ambiance that the music creates.” Wojtek takes us through the very real and possible ways in which to do so as we see with Atmosphere, making us rethink our own carbon footprints and to reduce it where possible in a music context. 

In 5 different steps, Wojtek tackles the mythical obstacles of a greener and more sustainable way of being. Applicable and extending beyond music production, covering promotion, travel and lifestyle, Wojtek shows us markings of significant impact these little changes can have collectively. This whole project was informed by awesome climate expert, Karol Gobczyński.

RECORDING

Get the right team behind you, it’s a team effort!

-       Make sure to use renewable energy in recording. 

-       Compensate by a GO certificate

-       Commute by bike or foot to recording

-       Track and measure the energy you use – note before and after sessions so you can compensate

-       Where possible, opt for studios using 100% renewable energy.

TRAVELS

If flying is unavoidable, did you know you CAN fly carbon neutrally? Purchase biofuel! Or offset your flights afterwards if no other option is available. The rest of the time, choose public transport where possible. 

PROMOTION

Promotional video production can be through use of repurposed video footage. For Wojtek’s promo, other artists donated material. Where data service and storage needed, renewable energy was used. Using pre-existing footage for promotional materials means zero emissions in your video production! 

DISTRIBUTION

Without the presence of a physical product, there is no need for logistical measures adding to the carbon footprint. Making it available on digital platforms immediately cuts out emissions that would have otherwise accumulated. However, device matters! Did you know, there are 30% less co2 emission if you stream on a mobile device rather than using a laptop? Also, use WiFi instead of mobile data. Can you imagine the collective impact if we all did this?!

LIFESTYLE

These may seem basic, but reminders are always welcome to make these habitual changes in the everyday: 

-       Plant based diet

-       Reuse material

-       Use bike as transport

-       Second hand music equipment

-       Repair, reuse, buy second hand

-       Use renewable energy at home

-       Save water

-       Aim to live with zero waste

And finally - SPREAD THE WORD! Encourage others around you. A collective approach equals substantial changes!

Follow Wojtek on TikTok to see how he is weaving green matters into the everyday. 

Resources:

Here are some handy resources where you can assess the impact your own carbon footprint and do:

GO certificates can be found here.

Our world in data: to understand your carbon footprint:

 Curious about your footprint? Find out more here.

Check out these resources and more on Wojtek’s website, where you can find some incredible facts and figures on Wojtek’s carbon neutral journey!