A new action plan which intends to reduce the carbon footprint of London’s theatre industry was launched yesterday by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.
Green Theatre: Taking Action On Climate Change, forms part of the Mayor’s commitment to reduce London’s carbon emission by 60 per cent by 2025, and identifies ways in which the capital’s theatre industry can cut down its current output of 50,000 tonnes of emissions each year.
The action plan outlines the most practical and effective measures that can be taken to reduce energy use in theatre buildings, saving money in energy bills at the same time. The plan suggests that if all its recommendations were put into practice, the industry could reduce its carbon emissions by close to 60 per cent by 2025 – the equivalent of converting over 5,000 London homes to zero-carbon.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: “London's theatres make a vital contribution to the capital's economy and its productions and venues are renowned worldwide. The power of the theatre industry to set an example in the fight against climate change is immense. I have been impressed with the genuine leadership and commitment shown by the industry bodies we have worked with in developing this plan. I am fully committed to reducing the capital's emissions by 60 per cent by 2025 and forward-thinking contributions such as Green Theatre will inspire many industries to help us meet this target together.”
Nica Burns, Chief Executive of Nimax Theatres and President of the Society of London Theatre, also commented: “As a high-profile and economically important British industry, London theatre is determined to lead from the front in minimising our environmental impact. That’s why we support the Green Theatres initiative.”
CB