Coldplay Commits to Sustainability on "Music of the Spheres" World Tour
British band Coldplay have put sustainability at the heart of their Music of the Spheres world tour, setting a new standard in the music industry. With a focus on reducing carbon emissions and using renewable energy, the tour has become an example of how major acts can minimise their environmental impact.
Guiding Principles: Reduce, Reinvent, Restore
On their website, Coldplay details their commitment to sustainability under the principles of “Reduce, Reinvent, Restore.” When the band announced the 2021 Music of the Spheres tour, they pledged to reduce direct carbon emissions (including show production, band and crew transportation) by at least 50%. As of today, they are pleased to report that direct CO2e emissions from the first two years of the tour are 59% lower than their previous stadium tour (2016-17), according to figures verified by the MIT Environmental Solutions Initiative.
Coldplay have expressed their gratitude towards their "amazing touring crew" and all the people who have made this achievement possible. They are especially grateful to all the fans who have contributed to the success of sustainable initiatives, such as charging the batteries on the electric bikes, travelling to the concerts by public transport or returning the LED bracelets for recycling. Let's look at these initiatives one by one:
Clean and Renewable Energy: The Collaboration with BMW
One of the tour's most notable innovations is the collaboration with the automotive multinational BMW. Thanks to this agreement, Coldplay uses 40 recycled batteries from the BMW i3 model, each with a capacity of 1,600 kWh, to power part of the show. These batteries are recharged between concerts using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, allowing the show to run more efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way.
Engaging the Public: Generating Energy with Dancing and Pedals
Beyond technological solutions, Coldplay has sought to involve its fans in this ecological mission. Concert-goers can generate clean energy by participating in interactive activities, such as pedaling on stationary bikes or dancing on kinetic dance floors. The energy produced by these means is used during the concert, creating a direct link between audience participation and the sustainability of the event.
In addition, each attendee is given a reusable LED bracelet. These bracelets, which illuminate the concert in spectacular fashion, are recycled and reused in each city, with the organization promoting a friendly competition between the different venues to see which one achieves the highest recycling percentage.
Commitment to Waste Reduction: The Deposit and Return System
Coldplay have also implemented a Deposit, Return and Refund System (DRRS) to reduce waste generated during concerts. Drinks are served in reusable cups, for which a small deposit is paid which is refunded upon return of the container. This system, already used in many cities around the world, helps to minimise the amount of plastic that ends up in the environment, aligning with the demands of environmental groups.
A Concrete Gesture: Support for Environmental Projects
Recognizing the economic impact of a world tour, the band has donated part of the ticket proceeds to global environmental projects. During concerts, images and videos are projected on screens showing how fans’ money is contributing to initiatives such as reforestation and ocean clean-up. This approach not only educates attendees about the importance of sustainability, but also involves them in the fight for a cleaner planet.
Concrete Results: A 59% Reduction in Carbon Emissions
Coldplay's efforts have yielded tangible results. According to a recent study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the "Music of the Spheres" tour has managed to reduce its carbon emissions by 59% compared to its 2016-2017 tour - a significant reduction that has been achieved thanks to a combination of innovative measures and the commitment of the team and fans.
Tour Highlights
59% reduction in direct CO2e emissions compared to the previous tour.
7 million trees planted , supported to maturity through One Tree Planted, restoring approximately 10,000 hectares of land in 24 countries.
86% return and reuse rate of LED bracelets.
18 shows powered entirely by the BMW i3's recycled battery system by 2023.
72% of tour waste diverted from landfills and sent for reuse, recycling and composting.
More than 3,000 tCO2e saved by purchasing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for flights.
33% reduction in the impact of freight transport.
9,625 meals and 90kg of toiletries donated to homeless people.
As Coldplay continues their Music of the Spheres tour, their commitment to sustainability is not only leaving a positive footprint on the planet, but also a legacy for future generations of musicians and fans. By leading by example, the band is not only entertaining, but also educating and inspiring thousands of people around the world to take concrete action to protect the environment.
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