Iberdrola with music
Taking steps towards a sustainable music culture
Iberdrola has set out to promote an energy that unites us: music. As part of our commitment to culture, we organise different artistic initiatives in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Music makes us travel to unthinkable places, moves us, connects us with other people, and benefits our well-being and gives us happiness. Talking about music is talking about the energy that unites us, with a transformative power that is at the very essence of Iberdrola and our various subsidiaries. We are committed to creating a sustainable and respectful culture through a wide variety of projects, cultural events and collaborations that integrate music and sustainability.
A music culture in line with the Sustainable Development Goals
We are all born with instruments: our voices or our hands. We can make and feel music, which becomes something greater than mere entertainment. In this sense, more and more organisations around the world point to the key role of the cultural and music sector in making societies more sustainable.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have as a common goal to "end poverty, protect the planet and improve the lives and prospects of all, everywhere". The International Music Council and the European Music Council have advocated for the recognition of culture as the fourth pillar of development – alongside the economic, social and environmental pillars – by acting as a driver for the achievement of the SDGs.
Music creates jobs, improves literacy, strengthens education, boosts creativity, can heal divisions and bring people together. These are some examples of how music contributes to promote the SDGs, according to the Center for Music Ecosystems report 'Your Guide to Music and the SDGs' 
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SDG 2. Zero hunger
Music can raise awareness of hunger through concerts. In addition, unused food from shows can be recycled into the local supply chain through partnerships with supermarkets and caterers to provide meals to those in need.
SDG 3. Health and well-being
According to a South African study cited in the report, "attending a live music concert once a fortnight for just 20 minutes increases a person's well-being by 21 % and can add up to nine years to your life". In addition, the US National Institute of Health points to the beneficial role of music in reducing stress.
SDG 4. Quality education
Studies show that music education improves performance in subjects such as science and technology and improves a wide range of skills such as memory, literacy and spatial learning.
SDG 5. Gender equality
Contributing to the participation of women in the music ecosystem can help reduce sexism and gender bias by showcasing their role in music performance, production and education, on and off stage.
SDG 7. Affordable and clean energy
The music industry demands a lot of energy that can be generated with renewable energy in all initiatives, from recording studios and rehearsal spaces to live events and festivals.
SDG 13. Climate action
A green festival can be achieved by working in partnership with the different sectors involved (logistics, hospitality, energy, among others) to reduce carbon emissions in transport.
Promoting a sustainable music culture
The involvement to achieve a decarbonised society is everyone's task and must include any area of our lives. At Iberdrola, we are working to create a greener future, and this also involves promoting sustainable leisure and culture – which are important in our relationship with the environment and young people.
In line with our commitment to continue leading the energy transition, we organise different artistic initiatives, promote cultural events and develop collaborations that integrate music and sustainability – in harmony with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our aim is to promote the decarbonisation of the music industry and major leisure festivals, as well as to promote equality for different groups in the cultural scene.
Keys to a more sustainable music festival
Festivals and concerts, especially big tours, have long since evolved from simple musical performances to large-scale immersive experiences. But is it possible to conceive a sustainable music event? Here are some keys to achieve it.
Emissions offsets
It is increasingly common for event planners to commit to compensate for emissions generated during the festival that could not be avoided.
Local sustainable suppliers
A simple way to work with a sustainable supply chain is to use suppliers located as close as possible to the event and who are particularly eco-friendly.
Sustainable mobility
Transport is often one of the biggest sources of carbon footprint. Some strategies could be to promote public transport, choose an accessible venue or charter shuttle buses. It is also possible to opt for electric mobility.
CO2 Calculation
Knowing the carbon footprint of the event makes it possible to reduce emissions and make the festival more sustainable in future editions. Everything possible should be measured – from electricity consumption, to transport for set-up or travel for artists and workers.
Biodiversity and environment protection
Some events can have a major impact on the natural environment. It is essential to keep the location away from sensitive natural places and to encourage respect for the environment among attendees.
Recycling
It is important to place numerous recycling bins around the event venue, with clear signage about what can and cannot be recycled.
Waste minimisation
A good way to make an event sustainable is to reduce the consumption of resources and materials such as packaging. You can also ban single-use plastic bottles and glasses in the venue.
Accessibility for all
Some measures may include preparing spaces with good visibility conditions, installing accessible routes or toilets, encouraging the accompaniment of people needing assistance or support, or having sign language interpreters.
SEE INFOGRAPHIC: Keys to a more sustainable music festival [PDF]Committed to equality in music
Women dominate almost all streaming music platforms. However, several studies point to female under-representation in the music industry and gender disparity in working conditions. This inequality has also been spreading outside the stage. Women in music production and songwriting consistently face barriers to equal recognition and representation, according to the Annenberg University of Southern California in its regular music reports.
This reality shows how much remains to be done to give more visibility to the immense female talent that exists in the sector. At Iberdrola we are committed to promoting equality in music in order to create a sustainable culture.
Supporting vulnerable groups through music
As culture gains presence as a right –already provided since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted in 1948– music is moving from being considered as an aesthetic and entertainment element to being understood as a good that contributes to the development of societies. In addition to promoting respect for the environment and gender equality, music has great power as a tool for social transformation by creating a sense of belonging and community identity, as well as active participation.
At Iberdrola, we are aware of the role of music as a social well-being asset and we promote cultural projects that support vulnerable groups. One of the most notable projects is Music Connects Communities External link, opens in new window. , promoted by the Scottish Power Foundation (foundation of our subsidiary in the United Kingdom); and the British organisation Playlist for Life External link, opens in new window. , which brings music to people with dementia in their own communities – using it to improve their health, well-being, and social connections.
This decade-long project involves a number of Assistance Points where people with dementia can access free information, resources and support to create and use a personalised playlist. With resources like these, we help families connect and improve their quality of life through the power of music with personal meaning.
Cultural programmes that inspire communities
Since the beginning of time, music has been used as an expression of cultural identity. At Iberdrola, we recognise and promote cultural and individual expression through music, and we promote cultural projects that highlight its role in the community. This is the case of the ScottishPower Pipe Band – one of the most important Grade 1 pipe bands in the world sponsored by the ScottishPower Foundation.
Discover the ScottishPower Pipe BandCultural programmes that inspire communities
Since the beginning of time, music has been used as an expression of cultural identity. At Iberdrola, we recognise and promote cultural and individual expression through music, and we promote cultural projects that highlight its role in the community. This is the case of the ScottishPower Pipe Band – one of the most important Grade 1 pipe bands in the world sponsored by the ScottishPower Foundation.
Discover the ScottishPower Pipe Band
