Christopher BarrettThe third edition of The Show Must Go On (SMGO) report, which identifies how festivals can reduce their environmental footprint by 37%, has been launched in the House of Commons.
The launch saw Patrick Hurley MP welcome guests including representatives from Vision for Sustainable Events, LIVE and Julie’s Bicycle, who outlined details of the state-of-the-industry report and a climate transition plan for the UK outdoor live events industry.
The authors of the SMGO report, which is available here, said it presents a clear picture of current practices, impact benchmarks, and the transition plan with a target of 50% emissions reductions by 2030.
“Organisations and sustainability experts across the outdoor live sector have come together in an unprecedented effort to create the most comprehensive impact report to date, and a blueprint for collaboration on urgent climate action,” said Vision for Sustainable Events Forum chair Chris Johnson.
The report includes advice to event operators about how to take practical action, includes climate action checklists, and identifies how festivals can reduce typical footprints by 37%. It also outlines specific requests of government policy to overcome what its authors describe as systemic barriers to stretch ambition and achieve 50% emissions reductions.
Festival Republic MD Melvin Benn said, “As event organisers, we are uniquely placed to help influence positive change. Our industry brings millions of people together every year, and with that comes both a responsibility and an opportunity. This report is not just a snapshot of where we are, it’s a call to action. The road ahead won’t be without challenges, but we’re no strangers to those. The show must go on, but it must go on sustainably”.
Key government asks from the industry include the national adoption of the Green Events Code of Practice (GECoP), accelerating the installation of grid connections in public outdoor event sites, adopting a consistent approach to waste management, and removing barriers to public transport for audiences.
LIVE CEO Jon Collins said, “This report offers a clear, concise assessment of where we can achieve progress and where we need external support and resources to create that change, clarifying a role for the Government to accelerate and stimulate positive change in matters such as power infrastructure, integrated transport, and reskilling and educating our workforce.”
Pictured left to right: Chris Johnson, Cathy Runciman, Richard Phillips, Patrick Hurley MP, Jon Collins.