We take a look at sustainability in its many perspectives; the climate impact of the music industry, having longevity in one’s career, inclusion of accessible considerations, and understanding how they all intersect.  Reports for tracking change need to be continually update, policies developed and working with governments for national implementation is crucial, as are toolkits and resources for advice on practical implementations for bands on tour, companies, festivals and organisations of ALL sizes and types.

What does sustainability in music look like in your country? Do you have any reports to share with us? Knowledge sharing is key! Get in touch and let us know.

In the meantime, access some resources here:

Sustainability from Chaos
(MIDiA x Amuse)

MIDiA’s fifth annual survey of global independent music creators, this report covers in-depth conversations with artists, and secondary research on topics such as career longevity and success, while re-evaluating what success looks like for the modern-day music artist. The report advocates for a more holistic, longer-term view of success, and a broader set of metrics to measure it. Implications for labels and artist services companies are also considered.

More than Music Report
(betternotstop)

The latest More than Music Report from betternotstop aims to raise awareness of the challenges festival organisers have in creating sustainable and eco-friendly events. The report compares data collected in 2022 on the improvements in the industry and aims to create a practical guide to help organisations prioritise their positive impact, as well as looking at the wider support needed by the industry to survive.

Music Of The Spheres Tour – Tour Emissions Update
(Coldplay / Hope Solutions)

When Coldplay first announced the Music Of The Spheres Tour in 2021, they pledged to reduce their direct carbon emissions (from show production, freight, band and crew travel) by at least 50%. Coldplay are happy to report that direct CO2e emissions from the first two years of this tour are 59% less than their previous stadium tour (2016-17), on a show-by-show comparison. These figures have been verified by the MIT Environmental Solutions Initiative.

 No climate action without us - How to include disabled people in live event sustainability
(Attitude is Everything / Julie’s Bicycle/ A Greener Future)

As well as revealing the key barriers that disabled people experience within initiatives that tackle sustainability, the toolkit outlines practical ways in which venues, events and festivals can implement accessible solutions in climate change and further includes case studies.

Making Impactful Music: 2023 ESG Report
(Warner Music Group)

Warner Music Group’s (WMG) third annual Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Report takes stock of where WMG started and where they are going in the critical initiatives implemented. The report delves into the impact in three key areas; empowering their workforce and creative talent, using their scale and influence for good, and reducing their impact to the environment.