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> INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

Environmentally, these kinds of initiatives can make a big difference. Creative industry sectors tend to be extremely energy hungry and so any efforts to lower their carbon emissions could make a significant contribution to helping the UK meet its reduction targets.

They can also play a vital role in raising public awareness of sustainability. When it comes to shocking, seducing and educating, the creative industries have unrivalled influence and can help to sway people’s attitudes and behaviour, both at an industry and consumer level.

The impact is not confined to these shores, either. The UK music industry’s low-carbon initiatives, for example, are winning international recognition and are increasingly serving as a model for other countries. Julie’s Bicycle has advised groups and individuals in Australia, China, Denmark, France, Germany and the US, and it was recently invited to lead industry engagement on the newly launched United Nations Music and Environment Initiative. Germany has launched a Green Music Initiative modelled closely on Julie’s Bicycle, while the US has formed a Green Music Group.


> BUSINESS BENEFITS

So, why are the UK’s creative industry sectors taking such a stand on sustainability? There are clearly moral reasons at play. As Tony Wadsworth, chairman of the BPI, puts it: “Climate change is undoubtedly the most urgent and compelling problem of our age and we must do what we can to help solve it.”

However, it is also clear that going green can have financial benefits and deliver significant commercial advantages. Introducing carbon-cutting measures can lower a company’s costs, improve efficiency and enhance its bottom line. Moreover, demonstrating green credentials is increasingly important when it comes to winning contracts and securing sales, with eco-factors having a growing influence in purchasing decisions. Ewan Willars, head of policy at the Royal Institute of British Architects, says: “UK architects see sustainability as something which can bring business benefits. Some 50-60 per cent of them have become more sustainable than required by law.”

For all these reasons, the UK creative industries’ keenness for greenness is likely to be a long-term commitment, rather than just a temporary fad.


PUBLISHING

PAPER CHASE

UK book publishers, printers and booksellers have been pioneers in the introduction of environmentally friendly strategies for their businesses.

PUBLISHERS:

94% recycle
84% reuse packaging and packing materials
56% reuse electrical goods
35% have energy champions within their businesses

PRINTERS:

100% recycling/reusing of all paper, cardboard, plastic and wood
70% reduction in waste to landfill
35% reduction of IPA (a volatile organic compound)
8% reduction in electricity usage

BOOKSELLERS:

95% reuse packaging and packing materials
88% recycle
66% only have doors open in fine weather
47% offer recycled paper bags
41% offer recycled plastic bags
35% reuse electrical goods
23% offer cotton or jute bags

Source: Booksellers Association