As musicians, we thrive on the road—performing, connecting with fans, and spreading our music to new places. However, touring can also have a significant environmental impact. From the carbon emissions of long drives to the waste generated by single-use plastic and the energy consumed by venues, the environmental footprint of touring is undeniable.
But it doesn’t have to be that way! More and more bands are taking a proactive stance, working to reduce their ecological impact while still maintaining a successful and enjoyable touring experience. Here’s how you can make your band’s tour more sustainable (and dare I say more affordable), without sacrificing the energy and excitement of live shows.
Plan Smart Travel Routes
Long drives are often inevitable, but planning your travel routes can minimize unnecessary carbon emissions.
Optimize your route: Use mapping tools to plan the most efficient routes. Group nearby cities or venues together to reduce backtracking and avoid wasted miles.
Carpool with other bands: If you're not touring alone, share rides with other groups or musicians. This helps reduce the number of vehicles on the road and can also help lower fuel costs.
Consider alternative transportation: For short-distance tours, consider using a train or bus instead of driving. These modes of transport are often more energy-efficient, especially for groups of people.
Go Green with Your Gear
The equipment you bring with you can also have an impact on the environment. Here’s how to make your gear more eco-friendly:
Switch to energy-efficient equipment: When buying new gear, opt for energy-efficient speakers, lights, and instruments. LED lights are more energy-efficient than traditional ones, and portable solar panels can power some of your equipment on the go.
Invest in durable cases: Avoid using disposable or poorly made cases by investing in long-lasting, sustainable options. Not only will this reduce waste, but it will also protect your gear better over time.
Use rechargeable batteries: Instead of relying on single-use batteries for wireless mics, tuners, and other gear, switch to rechargeable options to reduce waste and save money in the long run.
Minimize Waste on the Road
Waste is a major concern when touring, especially in terms of single-use plastics and paper products. Here’s how to keep it minimal:
Reusable containers and utensils: Encourage your bandmates and crew to use reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and food containers. You’ll avoid buying bottled water and reduce your environmental footprint.
Recycle whenever possible: Bring along recycling bins for your hotel rooms or backstage areas, and be sure to ask venues if they have recycling programs.
Reduce printed materials: Instead of printing flyers or posters, opt for digital marketing (social media, websites, etc.). If you must print, use recycled paper.
Choose Eco-Friendly Venues
Not all venues are created equal when it comes to sustainability. As much as possible, try to perform at venues that have made efforts to reduce their environmental impact.
Look for venues with green certifications: Many venues are becoming certified green by organizations such as the Green Music Initiative or the Green Venue’s Guide. These venues implement energy-saving technologies, waste reduction, and eco-friendly practices.
Work with venues on sustainability goals: Some venues may not have sustainability measures in place yet. Collaborate with them to create more sustainable practices for your show, like reducing plastic usage and ensuring proper waste disposal.
Promote zero-waste events: Encourage venues to adopt zero-waste policies, where they commit to eliminating all unnecessary waste and recycling as much as possible.
Sustainable Merchandising
Selling merchandise is a key part of your tour income, but it’s also a major contributor to waste. To reduce the environmental impact of your merch, try these tips:
Eco-friendly materials: Choose T-shirts, hats, and other items made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, or other sustainable fabrics. Additionally, consider working with vendors who use eco-friendly printing methods.
Digital merch options: Instead of only physical products, offer digital products like downloadable music, live performance videos, or exclusive content. This not only reduces material waste but also appeals to fans looking for convenience and digital access.
Minimize packaging waste: Opt for minimal, recyclable, or biodegradable packaging when shipping merch or offering items to fans at shows.
Make Your Fans Part of the Movement
Engaging with your fans on your sustainability journey can help raise awareness and encourage positive environmental changes.
Encourage eco-friendly travel: If your fans are attending shows, suggest carpooling or using public transport. Consider offering a discount or exclusive content to fans who show they’ve traveled sustainably.
Promote sustainability through your music and social media: Talk about your efforts to reduce your environmental impact and share tips with fans. You can also dedicate a song or part of your show to raise awareness for a cause related to sustainability.
Offset Your Carbon Emissions
For the unavoidable emissions—such as travel by air—consider compensating for your environmental impact.
Invest in carbon offsets: These are credits you purchase that help fund projects aimed at reducing or removing carbon emissions, like tree planting or renewable energy initiatives. There are plenty of organizations that make it easy to calculate your carbon footprint and buy offsets for your tour.
Support environmental organizations: Donate a portion of your merchandise sales to eco-focused nonprofits, or team up with one to raise awareness about sustainability during your tour.
Prioritize Local and Sustainable Food Choices
Touring often means eating out every day, and food choices can have a large environmental impact. Here are ways to make more sustainable choices:
Eat local, seasonal foods: Support local farmers and vendors by choosing fresh, in-season produce.
Vegetarian or plant-based options: The meat industry has a large carbon footprint, so opt for plant-based meals whenever possible. Many restaurants now offer vegetarian or vegan options.
Avoid food waste: Order just enough food to avoid waste and take leftovers when possible.
Touring as a band is about more than just hitting the road and playing music; it’s about creating a positive impact. By adopting sustainable practices, you’re not only reducing your environmental footprint but also setting an example for fans, fellow musicians, and the music industry at large. Small steps, like reducing waste, choosing eco-friendly venues, and offsetting carbon emissions, can make a huge difference in the long run.
As you continue on your musical journey, remember: sustainability is not an all-or-nothing goal. Even incremental changes can create a ripple effect that benefits the planet and the music community.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your tours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below! Let me know if you’d like to add anything to this post!
Comments