A greener Primavera Sound

Spain’s Primavera Sound has implemented numerous initiatives to help the music festival reduce its environmental impact.

This year’s edition in Barcelona will run between May 29 and June 2.

Up to four stages at the music festival will run on clean energy by being connected to the grid to reduce emissions, while organisers have also forged an agreement with Tram Barcelona to promote the use of public transport. A shuttle bus service will also run, and more free spaces to park bicycles safely have been included to promote cycling.

Additionally, Primavera Sound Barcelona will promote responsible measures and consumption to its attendees, aligning with its commitment to the 17 UN Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs).

The agreement with Tram Barcelona will see the T4 line run uninterrupted during the three days of the festival, while the shuttle bus service will run between Plaça Catalunya and Parc del Fòrum where the event is held.

The event will also be constructed from materials and items that can be easily reused, such as signage made from tarpaulin, reed fencing, bars, litter bins and backstage furniture. Additionally, 98% of the grass that transforms the main stage area into a large green meadow will be reused, according to organisers.

Catering for the festival will include a range of vegan food and local cuisine, to further reduce the environmental impact. Attendees will also be served using compostable tableware and benefit from a glass collection system for beverages.

In addition to the four stages operating on clean energy by being connected to the grid, two stages will combine grid and battery power to further reduce emissions.

In a bid to minimise water consumption, 85% of the toilet facilities at the Parc del Fòrum will have a system to optimise water consumption and the recirculation of wastewater will mean a saving of 90%.

Barcelona has been plagued with drought during the first half of 2024, meaning optimising water consumption has been a priority for organisers.