MIT To Examine Live’s Environmental Impact In Study Funded By Live Nation, WMG & Coldplay

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Environmental Solutions Initiative, one of the world’s top climate and environmental research groups, will conduct a study of the live music industry’s carbon footprint, with funding from Warner Music Group, Live Nation and Coldplay.

The report is expected to “suggest practical solutions to reduce the environmental impact of live music events at every level, from pubs and clubs to stadiums,” according to a press release.

The initial research phase, resulting in an Assessment Report of Live Music and Climate Change, will focused on the U.S. and UK, and is anticipated to be completed in July 2024. 

This report aims to assess the relationship between live music and climate change; identify areas where the industry and fans can make reduce emissions; and provide analysis of the “latest developments in green technology and sustainable practices.” 

“I’m delighted that we will be working with our partners to co-create recommendations for a sustainable future in music,” MIT professor and ESI director John E. Fernandez said in a press release. “As well as jointly funding the research, I applaud the spirit of openness and collaboration that will allow us to identify specific challenges in areas such as live event production, freight and audience travel, and recommend solutions that can be implemented across the entire industry to address climate change.”

Coldplay launched their current “Music Of The Spheres” tour with a pledge to cut emissions by 50% and committed to making the physical versions of their 2024 album from recycled plastic bottles. WMG is among the label-side leaders in green audio production, having worked with Coldplay on a 100% recycled vinyl version of the Music of the Spheres album.

“This partnership represents WMG’s proactive approach to advancing industry-wide understanding of the climate impacts of the music industry and supporting our artists’ connections with fans worldwide,” said Olga LaBelle, WMG’s Vice President, ESG • Strategy Integration & Operations. “I’m pleased to be able to lend our scale and resources to further the industry’s understanding and approach to climate-positive outcomes.”

Live Nation’s “Green Nation” division supports touring artists’ sustainability efforts and works to reduce the carbon footprint, energy use and waste at LN-operated festivals and venues.

“We’re proud to share best practices and solutions developed by Green Nation in this report,” said Lucy August-Perna, Director of Global Sustainability, Live Nation. “Helping accelerate sustainable practices benefits everyone who enjoys live music, while ensuring a strong future for the industry. We look forward to sharing the report with industry partners and fans alike.”

Live Nation alos partnered with Coldplay and public transportation providers to offer fans free or discounted rides on public transit, which increased ridership 59% on show days in four U.S. cities.