fbpx

Sustainability at BVOF

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival is committed to driving climate action by embedding sustainability into every aspect of our event. We strive to create a more environmentally responsible, efficient, and economically sustainable festival, ensuring that our commitment to the arts is matched by our dedication to the planet.
Sustainability is a core value of our festival, interwoven with respect, openness, and excellence. It informs our decisions and drives continuous improvement across all festival activities, with a focus on protecting nature and biodiversity, conserving resources, and reducing emissions.

 

Our Approach

Our sustainability strategy focuses on four key areas:

  • Energy & Waste Management – Implementing energy-efficient measures and enhancing waste reduction strategies across all event venues.
  • Carbon Footprint Reduction – Minimising environmental impact by integrating sustainability into festival planning, from production design to transport.
  • Sustainable Practices – Prioritising responsible procurement, supporting local and sustainable food sourcing, and reducing waste in catering, services, and retail.
  • Community Engagement & Awareness – Encouraging our staff, artists, audiences, and stakeholders to adopt more sustainable behaviours and take action against climate change.

 

 

What We’re Doing

  • Reduction of Single-Use Plastics – We have introduced reusable alternatives, encourage attendees to bring their own containers, and have replaced plastic water bottles with Tetra Pak cartons, significantly cutting plastic waste.
  • Recycling Programmes – An efficient waste management system ensures maximum recycling during the festival.
  • Active Travel Promotion – We partner with local transport providers, offer shuttle services, and promote cycling and walking routes to reduce carbon emissions. Free shared courtesy transport, using electric vehicles, is provided for older patrons and those with assisted travel requirements.
  • Locally Sourced Food – We prioritise locally sourced and organic food, reducing food miles and supporting the local economy. Festival dining and picnic options are sourced from local suppliers.
  • Carpooling Initiatives – We organise carpooling for cast and crew during rehearsals and the festival to reduce road traffic and encourage shared travel.
  • Digital Brochures & E-Tickets – By offering digital brochures and e-tickets, we have cut paper use by over 90%, reducing waste and embracing a more environmentally friendly approach.
  • Eco-Friendly Staging – Our productions incorporate sustainable materials for sets and props, reducing environmental impact.
  • Sustainable Flower Wall – Crafted using dried flowers, our flower wall minimises waste, conserves water, and supports local growers, further lowering our carbon footprint.
  • Waste Reduction Campaigns – Ongoing initiatives include portion control in catering and redistributing surplus food to volunteers and staff.
  • Local Printing & Recyclable Materials – Our festival programme and printed materials are produced locally to support the economy and reduce emissions. We use 100% recyclable paper and repurpose signage to avoid unnecessary plastic waste.

 

Sustainability is a shared responsibility. By adopting a governance-led approach, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival is dedicated to ensuring that our festival is greener, cleaner, and future-focused.