At the 31st IAMA International Conference in Zürich, HarrisonParrott’s Henry Southern moderated a panel discussion focussing on best practices in sustainability. The panel included:
- Marcus Axt – Intendant, Bamberg Symphony
- Anna Hallgren – Project Manager, Göteborgs Operan
- Sir Alexander Halliday FRS – Founding Dean of the Columbia Climate School and Director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University
- Simon Reinink – General Director, Het Concertgebouw, Amsterdam
Under the title of ‘It’s Not Easy Being Green’, they explored how can we move from the conversation forward and enact meaningful change. It attempted to be an honest reflection as to what will work on a sustainable basis given that artists’ livelihoods depend on performing and touring. Balancing a belief in international cultural exchange and its wonderful benefits versus our responsibility for the planet will be a debate which defines our careers and those of the artists we work with.
Amongst other topics, the panel discussed if it is possible to reframe success so that it is not entirely interwoven with appearances at international venues; practical measures such as green riders, more carbon-conscious methods of travel and tour routing; how the arts can use its platform to advocate and influence the discussion; and the individual versus systemic changes which are required.
Watch the discussion below:
