Massive Attack Leads Environmental Charge in Music Industry

Massive Attack is set to host a pioneering show in Bristol next month, focusing on environmental sustainability within the music industry. Robert Del Naja, also known as 3D, emphasized that the production will serve as a model for decarbonizing live performances. The band has a history of environmental advocacy, having begun their European tours by train in 2019 to cut carbon emissions and collaborating with the Tyndall Centre for Climate Research in 2021 to create a low-carbon roadmap for live music. In an effort to further reduce their carbon footprint, Massive Attack is encouraging fans to use public transport to attend the show. They have partnered with Train Hugger, a UK booking platform that allocates a portion of its revenue to environmental restoration projects. Del Naja announced plans to plant 20,000 oak trees for this event, highlighting the importance of making the experience enjoyable to motivate audience participation in sustainability efforts. The initiative draws parallels to the sports industry, where football clubs have long subsidized travel for fans. Del Naja noted that while this practice is common in football, it remains rare in the music sector. The ACT 1.5 project aims to leave a lasting legacy through the tree-planting initiative, which Del Naja believes could be significant, as this may be the band's final performance in Bristol. Other artists, like Coldplay and AJR, are also making strides in sustainability. Coldplay reported a 59% reduction in emissions during their 2022 tour, while AJR is actively engaging fans in local climate initiatives, showcasing a growing trend among musicians to address environmental concerns.