OUR ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

The Bothy Society recognises the UK government's ratification of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C.

As Carly McLachlan, director of the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research says, "Music, art, and culture are a really beautiful part of what it is to be human," but we want to ensure that The Bothy Society and our artists provide music, art and culture in ways that actively reduce environmental impact. Our aim isn't to greenwash but to make a genuine, measurable commitment and sustained effort to reduce emissions, address digital infrastructure impacts, and conduct business in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Our commitments have been put into action in the following ways:

Day to Day Business Activities

Reducing overall energy usage in day-to-day work activities
Encouraging artists, partners and suppliers to act in an environmentally positive way
Regular partner discussions on ways to improve processes to make them more sustainable
Use of 100% renewable or offset electricity for The Bothy Society offices and home working spaces
Continuous development of our sustainability policy and actions
Using green transport methods during workday and business travel
Using branchless, digital banking with institutions committed to sustainable finance

Digital Infrastructure & Technology

Encouraging fans to download music for offline listening rather than repeated streaming
Selecting digital service providers and hosting solutions that prioritise renewable energy
Being mindful of file sizes and streaming quality to reduce data transfer energy consumption
Using AI tools responsibly and efficiently, prioritising smaller models and energy-conscious applications
Regular review of digital infrastructure to ensure alignment with sustainability goals

Manufacture and Sales

Organic and sustainable merchandise using ethically sourced materials
Reduction in plastic packaging in CD and vinyl manufacture
Manufacturing vinyl records using eco-mix and exploring bio-plastic alternatives
Running pre-orders to reduce over ordering and scrappage
Sustainable and/or recycled packaging for physical and merchandise sales
Adding donation options for customers on our online stores supporting environmental and social impact charities

Touring

Responsible tour routing to limit emissions and reduce unnecessary travel
Strategic tour planning with fewer dates and reduced exclusivity clauses to enable more efficient routing
Greening the hospitality riders of our acts with plant-based and local food options
Working towards carbon offsetting and reduction for tours through verified schemes
Asking promoters and venues to source rider items and catering from local, sustainable suppliers
Encouraging fans to car share or take public transport when travelling to shows
Using rechargeable batteries on all equipment where possible and proper battery disposal where not
Encouraging venues and promoters to implement sustainable practices including renewable energy and waste reduction
Using green transport methods for personnel and equipment transport where possible, and researching new sustainable transport options
Eliminating single-use plastics at events and providing refillable water stations
Limiting short haul flights and prioritising ground transportation

We are continually working to do better, so if you have suggestions then please email

OUR ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

Day to Day Business Activities

Digital Infrastructure & Technology

Manufacture and Sales

Touring

Further Reading and Resources