DJs for Climate Action launch a Future Vision for the electronic music industry
Their plan is for a greener, fairer & more innovative industry by 2030
Our friends at DJs for Climate Action (DJs4CA) have announced a new vision for the electronic music industry, one that is greener, fairer and more innovative by the time that 2030 arrives. They’re calling it Future Vision and it's being delivered alongside a set of ideas on how we can get there.
“In 2030 we are not just an industry, but a vibrant global community at the forefront of climate, environmental and social action,” reads the official vision statement. “As DJs and artists, we take responsibility for our actions and impacts. When we travel we fly less, stay longer and connect more deeply - nourishing our creativity, as well as our mental and emotional health. Touring is regenerative, not extractive: a two-way exchange that supports local people, culture and ecologies.”
“We favour clubs, festivals and events that operate in harmony with nature, are inclusive and inspire a mindset shift. The contributions of diverse peoples in diverse places are recognised and valued: line-ups are more representative of our diverse, dynamic movement, with stronger regional and local programming.”
The vision lays out the framework of values, beliefs and actions needed to transition to a sustainable industry under four key pillars: Touring and Connection; Venues and Events; Economic and Income Model; and Self-awareness, Transparency and Influence.
Suggested actions include: green travel riders; longer guest residencies in overseas cities; an industry certification scheme for sustainably operated venues and events; stronger local and regional programming; greater community ownership of physical and online spaces; and donating or investing a percentage of income into green and social causes.
The Future Vision was designed and facilitated by a sustainability non-profit called reroot.or created together with DJs from many different continents and backgrounds, including Biomigrant, Eli Soulclap, Jinku, Lola Villa, Louisahhh, Mr. V and Peter Power through a series of workshops.
The initial data drew from a survey that was conducted at the end of 2020, which gained responses from more than 170 DJs globally including Lauren Flax, Nicola Cruz, Sam Feldt, Sander Kleinenberg and Thugfucker.
Colombia based DJ Bosq, who participated in the visioning process, said: “We don’t have time to do it piece by piece or in our own bubbles. It has to be about leveraging the power of the network – taking good ideas and spreading them quickly.”
The vision was unveiled in New York last week at an event called Undercurrent, which was made up of 11 original and immersive audiovisual art installations created by artists like Bon Iver, Grimes and more aimed at inspiring positive impact around the Climate Crisis.
The next step is to engage the industry and DJs4CA plan to do some by working with the Association for Electronic Music (AFEM) and A Greener Festival as well as their community that arrives on its dance floors around the world.
“As culture creators, we inspire others and create cultural trends by speaking with an authentic, humble voice about what’s needed, what’s happening, and opportunities to push further. We know we don’t have all the answers, but embrace the opportunity to be open and transparent, have difficult conversations when needed, and build an urgent industry-wide dialogue.”
Read more about Future Vision here
Mixmag Asia is committed to providing coverage to those looking to lessen the impact of the music industry on our planet. Read more sustainability content from Mixmag Asia’s Green Room series here.
