Sustainability
Our commitment to environmental responsibility and positive climate action
Towards a Zero-Carbon Festival
Arts by the Sea is committed to environmental sustainability and climate action. We recognize that the cultural sector has both a responsibility and an opportunity to lead by example in addressing the climate crisis. This page outlines our environmental policies, targets, and progress towards creating a truly sustainable festival.
Carbon Neutral
Target: 50% reduction by 2026, carbon neutral by 2030
Zero Waste
Divert 90% of waste from landfill by 2025
Continuous Improvement
Annual environmental audits and public reporting
Industry Leadership
Setting standards for sustainable cultural events
Environmental Policy
Arts by the Sea is committed to minimizing our environmental impact and actively contributing to climate solutions. Our environmental policy guides all aspects of festival planning and delivery.
Core Principles
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Measure & Monitor: Track our environmental impact through comprehensive carbon accounting
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Reduce First: Prioritize reduction over offsetting - eliminate emissions at source wherever possible
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Circular Economy: Embrace reuse, repair, and recycling in all aspects of festival operations
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Supply Chain: Work with suppliers who share our environmental values and commitments
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Transparency: Report openly on our progress, challenges, and learnings
Action Areas
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Energy: Transition to 100% renewable energy sources
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Transport: Encourage and incentivize low-carbon travel options
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Waste: Eliminate single-use plastics and maximize recycling
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Materials: Use sustainable, natural, and recyclable materials
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Food: Support local, seasonal, plant-based food options
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Nature: Protect and enhance local biodiversity and green spaces
Progress & Achievements
Waste Diverted from Landfill
In 2024, we achieved an 85% waste diversion rate through comprehensive recycling and composting
Renewable Energy
All mains electricity used at the festival comes from certified renewable sources
Carbon Reduction
We've reduced our carbon emissions by 30% since 2022 through operational improvements
2025 Targets
Zero Single-Use Plastics
Complete elimination of single-use plastics from all festival operations and vendors
90% Waste Diversion
Achieve our target of diverting 90% of all waste from landfill
60% Sustainable Travel
Target 60% of visitors arriving by public transport, cycling, or walking
Carbon Footprint Report
Publish comprehensive carbon footprint assessment for 2025 festival
How You Can Help
Every festival visitor plays a crucial role in helping us achieve our sustainability goals. Here's how you can make a difference:
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Travel to the festival by public transport, bike, or on foot
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Bring a reusable water bottle and use our refill stations
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Use the recycling and composting bins correctly
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Choose vegetarian or vegan food options when possible
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Take all your belongings home with you (leave no trace)
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Visit the Green Hub to learn more and get involved
Join Our Sustainability Journey
We're committed to continuous improvement and welcome feedback, suggestions, and partnership opportunities to help us create an even more sustainable festival.
Questions about our sustainability initiatives? Email us at sustainability@artsbournemouth.org.uk