Sustainable summer: Five ways to make the festivals you attend this season more climate-friendly

As climate-related concerns continue to grow, event organisers across Europe are increasingly aware of the carbon impact large gatherings can have. If you’re looking to enjoy a sustainable summer concert or festival this year, here are a few things to look out for to make your experience greener.

1) Transport and accommodation

Check whether the event location links up with public transport. Travelling by bus or train instead of taking the car is one of the most impactful ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

See whether your accommodation’s website has any green certificates or operates in a sustainable way. Does it mention any eco-schemes like reducing the amount of energy and water they use?

2) Food and drink

Delve into the event website to explore the range of food and drink available at the venue. Look out for vegetarian or vegan options, or see if any of the caterers provide locally-sourced, organic produce. Perhaps the event also is committing to serving tap water so you can easily fill up your reusable water bottle?

It is also important to make sure you generate as little food waste as possible while at the event, and try to make use of any food waste bins so that leftovers can be composted.

3) Waste

Rubbish left behind after an event is not only an eyesore, it can have a serious ecological impact. Greener events will encourage you to minimise your litter, and recycle your waste correctly, for example by using plastic waste bins. One way you can do this is by using your own cutlery, water bottles and reusable straws and cut out single-use plastic items.

4) Energy

Events need electricity to run lights, sound systems and catering facilities, but how are they powered? Look out for events that try to use as little energy as possible, or consider an event that is powered using renewable energy.

5) Giving back

Going green is not just about cutting carbon emissions, it’s also about considering our impact on local communities and ecosystems. Organisers can help by supporting local social and green projects through a donation of part of the entrance fee, or by encouraging festival-goers to donate to or help out with a local scheme that benefits both people and nature.

Did you know that if you try some of these tips at your next event, you'd be supporting the mission of the European Climate Pact? The Pact is working towards a climate-neutral Europe by 2050 and by taking small steps in your own world, you're helping us all to get there! So, enjoy your summer events, and relax knowing you have made your experiences as sustainable as possible!

This article was originally published on 18 July 2023.