Touring is an essential part of a musician's journey, but it can take a toll on the environment and your well-being. Here are five steps to help you tour sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying a successful music career:
- Green Transportation: Opt for eco-friendly transportation methods. Use fuel-efficient tour vans, carpool with band members, or explore alternatives like trains and buses. When flying is necessary, consider purchasing carbon offsets to neutralize emissions.
- Eco-Friendly Tour Merchandise: Create sustainable merchandise for your tours. Choose merchandise made from organic, recycled, or fair-trade materials. Promote reusable items like water bottles and tote bags to minimize waste.
- Local Sourcing: Support local economies by sourcing food and merchandise from nearby businesses. Not only does this reduce the environmental impact of shipping, but it also strengthens connections with local communities.
- Green Riders: Implement eco-friendly requirements in your tour rider. Request that venues provide recycling bins, energy-efficient lighting, and locally sourced catering. Encourage them to reduce single-use plastics and limit energy consumption.
- Engage Your Fans: Educate your fans about sustainable practices and encourage them to get involved. Host "green" meet-and-greets or volunteer events in each tour location. Partner with local environmental organizations to promote eco-conscious living.
Touring sustainably doesn't just help the planet; it also enhances your reputation and connects you with environmentally conscious fans. Make green choices in transportation, merchandise, local sourcing, rider requests, and fan engagement to create a positive impact on your touring journey.