Carbon Auditing International Touring – Radiohead Case Study
The Radiohead audit estimated the carbon dioxide emissions from 2 US tours, one of amphitheatres and one of US theatre venues. They found emissions of 9,073 t CO2e for the amphitheatre tour and 2,295 t CO2e for the US theatre venue tour.
Best Foot Forward on behalf of Radiohead produced some of the most comprehensive information on the carbon footprint of an international tour. They measured emissions on their theatre and amphitheatre tours to the US in 2003 and 2006. Each audit calculated the carbon dioxide emissions from pre-tour production; artist and crew travel and accommodation; equipment transportation; power generation; audience travel; merchandising; and food and catering.
The theatre tour had 19 shows across the US and a total audience of approximately 70,000 people. The carbon audit estimates the theatre tour produced in the order of 2,295 t CO2, which translates to about 33 kg CO2 per ticket. Audience travel comprised by far the greatest proportion of emissions – 86%.
The amphitheatre tours had 12 shows across the US and a total audience of approximately 240,000 people. The audit estimates the amphitheatre tour resulted in 9,073 t CO2, which translates to about 38 kg CO2 per ticket. Audience travel is estimated to be 97% of the total emissions (Stentiford, 2007).