We are implementing changes in all parts of the festival to lighten our load. Here's some of them:
We are working with Haymarket to run biodiesel in every generator and light tower on festival grounds. In addition to displacing nearly 2,000 gallons of imported diesel, this will improve air quality by reducing carbon monoxide emissions by 24%, particulate matter emissions by 18%, and other carcinogens by 40%. Plus they're quieter.
In addition to organic, locally grown choices by food court vendors and backstage caterings ops, food will be served on paper or compostable plates, and food areas will use toxic-free cleansers. And just so you know, styrofoam is banned throughout. In Green Street, look for an art market featuring eco-friendly vendors selling all sorts of fun, green goods.
Our focus will be on recycling water bottles. Remember you can refill your water bottle for free from water fountains throughout the park.
We are offering several organic and sustainable goods in the store. We’re using biodegradable bags instead of plastic. Volunteer T’s will be totally organic, too.
From TP and food napkins to marketing materials — we’re using recycled paper all around. We’re also recycling cardboard and replacing portalet paper towels with hand sanitizer.
Some key efforts include the ban of promotional paper handouts on festival grounds and a careful look at giveaways that can turn into trash on site. Festival signage will be designed with the goal of re-use, even for other events. And a local nonprofit is going to help us reclaim, reuse, and recycle as much stuff as possible once the festival is over.
All have pledged enthusiastic support. For example, Blackstone Wine cups will be biodegradable, as will the iTunes free download cards. And not one of our sponsors will be handing out paper promotional items.
In addition to recycled paper, non-toxic cleansers, and battery and printer cartridge recycling, we’re working with Green Mountain to make our office 100% carbon neutral.
We are encouraging Lollapalooza artists to green their tours by using bio-fuels in their tour buses, sourcing merch made from sustainable materials, incorporating waste reduction and recycling programs, communicating values with fans, and more.
You get the idea. We’re committed to improving our environment and finding more ways to do our part. And if we can contribute great music experiences along the way, the journey will be that much more rewarding.