Massive Attack Announce First UK Show in 5 Years, Touting “Unprecedented Decarbonization Measures”

Massive Attack has just dropped a climate-conscious bombshell, and it’s music to the ears of environmental enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Brace yourselves because the legendary band is set to make a triumphant return to their hometown of Bristol, England, for their first UK show in half a decade, and it’s not just any ordinary gig. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an Act 1.5 in the fight against climate change, and it’s turning the music industry’s carbon footprint on its head.

Taking place on August 25 at the picturesque Clifton Downs, Massive Attack’s Act 1.5 promises to be a “large-scale climate action accelerator event” and proudly boasts of being “the lowest carbon show of its size ever staged.” That’s right; they’re not just dropping beats; they’re dropping carbon emissions.

The band has been on a mission, and this event is the latest chapter in their partnership with the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research. It’s not just lip service; it’s a tangible commitment to decarbonization. So, what are these “unprecedented” measures that Massive Attack is taking?

First up, they’re encouraging fans to hop on the eco-friendly train to get to the show with a rail travel incentive. No more carbon-spewing road trips; it’s all about the tracks. Plus, they’ve introduced an initial presale for folks residing in local postal codes, including Bristol, Bath, and the surrounding areas, to discourage long-distance travel. It’s like a golden ticket for the green-minded.

But wait, there’s more. The entire event will be powered by renewable energy. They’ve got electric shuttles to whisk you to the rail hubs, ensuring you arrive in style and with a clean conscience. And when it comes to grub, forget about meat; it won’t be on the menu. This show is all about sustainable bites.

Massive Attack is serious about their tour and production vehicles too. They’ve gone full electric or are using 100 percent waste product HVO fuel. They’re not just singing about a greener world; they’re driving toward it.

And if that’s not enough, in partnership with Train Hugger and the Royal Forestry Society, they’re leaving a green legacy by planting a new woodland plantation in the South West region. Mountain, shining, and southern blue gum trees are their picks for their rapid growth and carbon-capturing prowess.

Robert “3D” Del Naja, the visionary behind Massive Attack, expressed his excitement, saying, “In terms of climate change action, there are no excuses left.” He’s right; it’s time for the music industry to face the music and drastically reduce emissions.

Professor Carly McLachlan from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research chimed in, emphasizing that this is precisely the type of transformative approach needed in the live music sector. It’s not just about the show itself but reducing emissions across all aspects of the music experience.

So, as we groove to Massive Attack’s beats at Act 1.5, we’re not just dancing; we’re participating in a revolution. Music and climate action are harmonizing, setting an example for all sectors to follow. This is more than a concert; it’s a statement that we can change the world one electrifying performance at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Decarbonizing Music

What is Massive Attack’s Act 1.5 event all about?

Massive Attack’s Act 1.5 is not just a concert; it’s a large-scale climate action accelerator event aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the music industry.

When and where will Act 1.5 take place?

Act 1.5 is scheduled for August 25 and will be held at Clifton Downs in Bristol, England, which happens to be the band’s hometown.

What makes Act 1.5 a “low carbon” show?

This event is being touted as “the lowest carbon show of its size ever staged.” It achieves this by using renewable energy, offering incentives for rail travel, and promoting local attendance to reduce long-distance travel.

How are they encouraging fans to use rail travel?

Massive Attack is offering a rail travel incentive to encourage fans to take the eco-friendly train to the event, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance travel.

What about food options at the event?

In line with their sustainability goals, no meat will be sold at Act 1.5, emphasizing a more environmentally friendly menu.

How are the touring and production vehicles contributing to decarbonization?

All touring and production vehicles for Act 1.5 will be either electric or powered by 100 percent waste product HVO fuel, reducing emissions associated with transportation.

What’s the green legacy they’re creating?

In partnership with Train Hugger and the Royal Forestry Society, Massive Attack plans to establish a new woodland plantation in the South West region as a lasting green legacy for the event, using trees known for their fast growth and carbon capture abilities.

What’s the significance of their partnership with the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research?

This partnership reflects a commitment to serious climate action in the music industry, working together to reduce emissions and set an example for other sectors to follow.

How does Act 1.5 align with climate change goals like the Paris Agreement?

By implementing innovative and sustainable measures across all aspects of the event, Act 1.5 demonstrates a transformative approach that aligns with global climate change goals, showing that the live music sector can lead the way in reducing emissions.

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