Massive Attack planning a festival 100% powered by renewable energy

Massive Attack have announced a one-day festival that will be 100% powered by renewable energy in an effort to prove to the industry that sustainable festivals are possible.

The event, which will take place on 25th August 2024 in their hometown of Bristol, is meant to be a "prototype" for the industry, which Massive Attack believe are incredibly lax when it comes to climate regulations. It's Massive Attack's first UK show in five years and promises to be the lowest carbon show of its size ever staged.

The Downs show next Aug will be the lowest carbon event of its scale ever staged & Massive Attack fans will play a vital role in that achievement. Art & music can lead the way on climate action & climate justice, but our own house must be in order first. https://t.co/9UWP3S7uDW pic.twitter.com/wVuuTB4zfY

— Massive Attack (@MassiveAttackUK) December 5, 2023

"There’s always talk about ‘I’ll just wait for technology’, but the technology is available – there are ways of doing it," said MA founding member Robert Del Naja, also known as 3D, in a statement. “In terms of climate change action there are no excuses left; offsetting, endless seminars and diluted declarations have all been found out – so live music must drastically reduce all primary emissions and take account of fan travel.

“Working with pioneering partners on this project means we can seriously move the dial for major live music events and help create precedents that are immediately available.”

Due to attendee transportation being the cause of 65% to 85% of emissions for large-scale shows, the band will also give fans an incentive to travel via public transportation. In an attempt to discourage private car travel, local fans will be given priority for tickets, train travel will be encouraged, and the venue will provide shuttles to the nearby train station for those travelling from further afield.

Massive Attack previously planned a similar event in 2021 in Liverpool, but the concert was cancelled after they found out the venue was also signed on to host an arms fair.