Massive Attack detail decarbonisation measures for climate-action concert, ACT 1.5

Massive Attack have shared full details of the decarbonisation measures that will be undertaken at their upcoming ACT 1.5 gig in Bristol.

The event, which aims to be the “lowest carbon show of its size ever staged”, will take place at Bristol Downs on 25th August, and the group have unveiled a list of 23 decarbonisation measures that will be undertaken on the day of the event, as well as two additional legacy measures.

Among the measures that have already been taken, or are being undertaken next month, are a 48-hour pre-sale period for Bristol region postcodes to encourage only those who live locally to attend; a rail incentivisation scheme offering any ticket holder travelling from outside the city wristband access to a VIP bar and toilets if they don’t drive or take a plane, and free electric bus shuttles to and from city centre locations. There will also be no private vehicle car parks on or adjacent to the festival site.

The entire festival site and all operations will be powered by 100% renewable energy and batteries, while all food on offer will be completely pant-based, using localised supply food chains. There’s a 100% zero to landfill waste policy, a food waste prevention plan, a reusable cup system in place on all bars, and all toilets on site will be 100% compostable.

Massive Attack have taken all their feasible tour routes by rail, and all of the support acts are encouraged to get to the show by rail too. Lighting will be completely solar and electric battery-powered, while LED and low-energy lighting has been prioritised for all stage production and artistic lighting.

Speaking about the event, Massive Attack’s Robert “3D” del Naja said: “The ACT 1.5 event in August may be the last time we play in Bristol, so we’ve put a lot of attention into making sure the experience is as rich as possible. The show itself is a transgressive leap in our collaboration with Adam Curtis and United Visual Artists that we’re really excited to present.

“The show produced is pioneering in all aspects of decarbonisation and will create a blueprint for the way live shows can be produced. The scale of innovations and emissions reductions will speak for themselves. It’s a special moment for multiple reasons, and we cannot wait to see you all there.”

Find more information about the ACT 1.5 event here.

The group first announced details of the special gig back in December of last year. Killer Mike and others will support them at the event.

Last month,  Robert Del Naja featured in a video online in which he reads a letter written by a doctor based in Gaza, as part of the Voices For Gaza initiative.