22 Apr 08

The UK music industry is creating the equivalent of nearly one million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year, according to research conducted by Oxford University's Environmental Change Institute (ECI).

The research was commissioned by Julie’s Bicycle, a not-for-profit body, which is developing as a music industry collaboration to try and reduce the sector’s own carbon footprint.

This initial audit shows that live performances to UK audiences and the sale of music products in this country are currently creating at least 538,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, which is roughly equal to the annual emissions from 180,000 cars. Although there is limited data currently available, researchers believes that US and European touring by UK artists is responsible for at least 400,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.

The ECI report urges the music industry to introduce low carbon CD packaging across the industry. It also recommends artists and music promoters to get behind initiatives that encourage music fans to catch a bus or train – by creating a variety of travel schemes, and working with local authorities and travel companies. Other suggestions for reducing the industry’s carbon footprint include switching to green electricity tariff or renewable energy sourcing, and better management of energy use in venues, offices and music stores. 

Together, the domestic and international estimates produce a figure for total emissions from the UK music industry of at least 938,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. This initial audit does not include some further and potentially significant sources of emissions related to the manufacture and distribution of the technology for listening to music and musical equipment, music education and the music media.

Jazz Summers, Chairman of Julie’s Bicycle, said: ‘We believe that the UK music industry, and the artists and performers that make it special, has the power – and the responsibility – to encourage the more efficient energy use that is needed to address climate change. We urge every company, no matter how big or small, to start thinking of ways to reduce its carbon footprint.’

Alison Tickell, Director of Julie’s Bicycle, said: ‘This report provides us with clear priorities, benchmarks, and a road map to make it possible to start reducing emissions at company and at industry level. This gives the industry the platform to deliver some exciting initiatives that are under development. We would like to see music companies undertaking regular greenhouse gas emission audits – just as they review other important aspects of their business.’