Massive Attack to play low-carbon gig in Liverpool as part of research with climate scientists

Last week, Massive Attack announced that they were partnering with analysts from Manchester University’s Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research to provide data accumulated from their touring and recording schedule to contribute to a larger investigation into the carbon footprint of the music industry.

The aim of the partnership, in Massive Attack's own words, is "to map thoroughly the carbon footprint of band tour cycles, and to present options that can be implemented quickly to begin a meaningful reduction of impact."

Today (3 December), Massive Attack have announced a new show in Liverpool for next year, and will provide vital data for their ongoing research with the Tyndall Centre for Climate Chanfge Research.

Massive Attack's attempt to perform a "super-low carbon" show will mean they'll have to minimise their carbon production from the band, crew, and equipment transportation, production power, catering options, audience transportation, merchandising, and show sponsorship.

They will unite with renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors, and will work with Culture Liverpool, various City Authorities, and transport providers to help reduce their carbon footprint.

Massive Attack's summer shows will be used to collect data for their project with the Tyndall Centre, and will see the band, crew, and equipment transported to the shows by rail.

Robert Del Naja of Massive Attack says of their new project, "We're looking forward to exploring the social and scientific solutions to the challenges we face in transitioning to a low carbon society. This project offers an opportunity to work with new and progressive identities in the planning, energy, technology and transport sectors. After years of participation in large scale music events that have had questionable sponsors on the ticket and too often, very little enthusiasm for meaningful change."

Professor Carly McLachla, Director at the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research says, "Climate Emergency requires rapid shifts from theory to practice. The Liverpool event offers a great opportunity to bring together the different organisations needed to really reshape the impact of live music events. This collaborative and learning by doing approach will allow a real-world exploration of where the quick and easy wins are, and where we need to work together to tackle the more stubborn challenges."