Coldplay’s “Music Of The Spheres” Tour: A Logistics and Sustainability Triumph

Coldplay’s “Music Of The Spheres” Tour: A Logistics and Sustainability Triumph
By: Kate Yankovska | AVANTI PR

The article is based on the official tour emission update from June 3, 2024 from the official Coldplay website. 

When Coldplay announced their “Music Of The Spheres” Tour in 2021, they committed to a bold goal: reducing their direct carbon emissions by at least 50% compared to their previous stadium tour. Today, they proudly report that they've surpassed this goal, achieving a 59% reduction in direct CO2e emissions over the first two years of the tour, verified by the MIT Environmental Solutions Initiative.

This remarkable achievement is a testament to meticulous planning, innovative solutions, and the dedication of everyone involved in the tour. Here's a closer look at the key highlights of their sustainable touring efforts:

Key Achievements:

• 59% Reduction in CO2e Emissions: Compared to the 2016-17 stadium tour, verified by MIT.
• 7 Million Trees Planted: Supported to maturity via One Tree Planted, restoring approximately 10,000 hectares across 24 countries.
• 18 Shows Powered by Tourable Battery Systems: Using recycled BMW i3 batteries.
• 23 Partnerships with Green Travel Providers: Facilitating super-low carbon transport for fans.
• 86% Reuse Rate of LED Wristbands: Fans returned and reused wristbands, reducing waste.
• Solar-Powered River Interceptors: Two Ocean Cleanup devices deployed to clean rivers.
• 3,000 tCO2e Saved with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Reducing the carbon footprint of flights.
• 72% Waste Diversion: Waste sent for reuse, recycling, and composting.
• 9,625 Meals and 90kg of Toiletries Donated: Supporting the unhoused and unsheltered.
• 33% Reduction in Freight Impacts: Thanks to DHL’s advanced logistics solutions.

Freight Impact Assessment

As the Official Logistics Partner for the tour, DHL has played a crucial role in reducing freight and transportation emissions. They will continue to provide solutions aimed at minimizing logistics-related emissions, including optimizing packing efficiency, utilizing advanced biofuels for sea and air transport, and employing electric vehicles for land transport.

DHL’s GoGreen team assisted with our freight impact assessment by inputting all the data from our freight forwarder into the EcoTransIT freight emissions calculation tools. This methodology and assessment adhere to leading industry guidelines such as EN16258 and the Global Logistics Emission Council (GLEC) framework.

Future Goals:

While celebrating these achievements, Coldplay acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. They continue to push for industry standards in sustainable touring and emissions reporting, working with partners to create carbon footprint baselines for different types of tours.

A Message from MIT:

Prof. John E. Fernández of the MIT Environmental Solutions Initiative commended Coldplay for their leadership in sustainability. “Coldplay is setting a new standard for the entire music industry with substantial progress in reducing emissions from touring,” he stated.

Fan Engagement:

Coldplay has also engaged fans in their sustainability efforts. Approximately one-third of audience members have used public transport, and 4% have traveled via zero-carbon methods like walking or biking, significantly reducing indirect emissions.

Coldplay’s “Music Of The Spheres” Tour is not just a musical journey but a pioneering example of how the entertainment industry can embrace sustainability. With continued dedication and innovative solutions, Coldplay is leading the way toward a greener future for live music.