At Festival Diaries, we believe in the power of information to spark change. We’re committed to contributing to a greener world of festivals by sharing news, updates, and facts about sustainability in this vibrant industry. We understand the power festivals hold to influence positive change, and our aim is to highlight the ways they are doing just that.
Through our curated content, we delve into the various facets of sustainability within the festival scene. Our focus is not only on the environmental aspects, such as waste management and energy efficiency, but also on the social and economic dimensions. From showcasing eco-friendly practices at festivals around the world to profiling trailblazing organizers who are making sustainability a priority, we’re here to tell these important stories.
Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer, an event organizer, or someone simply interested in how the festival industry can contribute to a more sustainable future, Festival Diaries is your go-to resource. Our purpose is to educate, inspire, and drive forward the dialogue around sustainability in festivals.
Join us in our quest for a greener festival world, as we keep you informed and inspired about the steps being taken towards more sustainable festival experiences. Here’s to celebrating life, music, and our shared environment in the most sustainable way possible!
Have you ever wondered what goes into making your favourite festival a reality, particularly when it comes to the environment? Here’s a peek behind the scenes:
Legislation and Regulation: Festivals must adhere to numerous laws and regulations, which can vary greatly depending on the event’s size and location. Some of these include:
Environmental Protection Laws: These regulations ensure that festivals respect the environment. This can cover everything from how waste is disposed of, to maintaining air and water quality, minimizing noise pollution, and protecting local wildlife.
Health and Safety Regulations: Festivals must meet certain health and safety standards, ensuring everything from the safety of the food and drink sold, to emergency preparedness, and even fire safety measures are in place.
Permits and Licenses: There are lots of permissions that festivals need to secure. These can range from environmental permits, particularly if the event is held in sensitive locations, to noise permits and liquor licenses.
Sustainable Procurement Policies: Some festivals are required to follow sustainable purchasing practices. This means that they are committed to sourcing products and services in a way that’s beneficial not only to the festival but also to society, the economy, and the environment.
Environmental Impacts of Festivals: Festivals can have diverse environmental impacts, which are carefully considered during planning:
Waste Generation: With thousands of attendees, festivals can generate significant amounts of waste, from food containers to flyers. Many festivals work hard to minimize this waste and recycle wherever possible.
Energy Consumption: Stages, lighting, sound systems, and more mean that festivals can use a lot of energy. That’s why many are now turning to more efficient technologies and even renewable energy sources.
Water Usage: With all those people to keep hydrated and clean, water usage at festivals can be high. Measures are often in place to use water as efficiently as possible.
Emissions: Festivals can contribute to air pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions, from various sources like transport or generators. Increasingly, festivals are working to minimize their carbon footprint.
Noise Pollution: As anyone who’s camped near the main stage will know, festivals can be loud! Noise regulations help to protect local communities and wildlife.
Land Usage & Biodiversity: Festivals, especially those in greenfield sites, can impact local ecosystems. Organizers work to minimize this impact and protect local biodiversity.
Through careful planning and management, festivals strive to minimize their environmental impact and contribute to sustainability, making sure the party can continue for years to come! Remember, as an attendee, you also play a crucial role in supporting these efforts, so let’s make the next festival the greenest one yet!
Want to delve deeper?
Where to look for information?
Organizations and initiatives that supported sustainable event planning, which also encompasses festivals.
- Green Events & Innovations Conference (GEI): This annual conference brings together professionals from festivals and events sectors to discuss sustainable practices.
https://agreenerfuture.com/ - Julie’s Bicycle: A London-based charity that supports the creative community to act on climate change and environmental sustainability.
https://juliesbicycle.com/ - Event Safety Alliance (ESA): Though it’s mainly concerned with safety issues, ESA also promotes sustainable event management.
https://www.eventsafetyalliance.org/
