Zero-Waste Festival Kernowfornia Launches In UK

The Brand New Cornish Festival Setting the Standard for Eco-Conscious Events with Its Zero Waste Initiative.

Kernowfornia Festival is the name of a brand-new festival scheduled to premiere in the scenic coastal town of Looe in Cornwall, England, Sept. 26-28.

Its makers want to set a new benchmark for festivals across the world when it comes to its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

“With a focus on a zero waste ethos, the festival aims to create an unforgettable experience for attendees while minimizing its ecological footprint. This year’s festival, taking place in the heart of Cornwall, promises not only a celebration of music, art, and culture but also a powerful message about the importance of sustainability in our communities,” the press release announcing the launch of Kernowfornia states.

The name, its founder Jonathan Stafford told Pollstar, is “an amalgamation of ‘Kernow’, which is Cornwall in Cornish, and California, because it’s set on a beach!

Kernowfornia Festival is “dedicated to reducing waste through innovative practices and community engagement,” the press release continues, stating, “attendees can expect a variety of initiatives designed to promote recycling, composting, and the use of biodegradable materials. From reusable cups to compostable food containers, every aspect of the festival has been meticulously planned to ensure that waste is kept to an absolute minimum.”

Some of the initiatives taken by the promoters includea ban on single-use plastics, and “comprehensive carbon offsetting plans.”

Stafford a musician himself, in the band Haunt the Woods, said he’s “been in and around events and festivals for over a decade. More than anything, I’m just a lover of good music. My team are some of the most experienced events personnel in the UK, supplying and helping run festivals and large scale music events up and down the country.”

He said Kernowfornia Festival, aside from its environmental impact would also have an economic, and social impact: “Economically, festivals of this nature have been shown to invigorate local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants, and retail establishments, by drawing visitors from both near and far. The influx of festival-goers leads to increased spending in the area, supporting local enterprises and contributing to economic growth.

“Socially, the festival promotes community cohesion by bringing people together in celebration of music and culture.”

The premiere will have a capacity of 7,000 people. The festival’s organizers have pledged to donate 1% of profits to a series of charities carrying out great work in both Cornish and further afield communities. In year one, these include Surfers Against Sewage, Looe RNLI Station, and the Livewire Youth Project.

Additionally, the festival is establishing the Kernowfornia Award, “a charitable fund aimed at supporting community projects within the PL12 and PL13 postcodes,” underscoring the festival’s dedication to reinvest in the local area, ensuring that the benefits of the event extend beyond the immediate festivities and contribute to long-term community development.

“Kernowfornia Festival invites everyone to join in this exciting journey towards sustainability. Together, we can create a vibrant, eco-conscious community that celebrates creativity while protecting the planet for future generations,” the press release concludes.

Adult weekend tickets are on sale for £109 ($148), the £35 ($48) VIP upgrades giving ticketholders access to a VIP bar and viewing platform are sold out. Family weekend ticket for two adults and two children between the age of 5-17 are sold for £250 ($339). Teenagers and children are discounted further, while under 5’s are free.

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