AJR’s Adam Met Reveals Shocking Climate Change Insights at DNC: How a Rock Star is Transforming Policy with Celebrity Backing

Adam Met’s Dual Passions: Music and Climate Activism

After wrapping up a tour, Adam Met, the bass guitarist from AJR, diverted his focus from music to politics. At the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Met voiced his support for Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. His dedication to climate activism was evident as he discussed the intersection of music and environmental advocacy.

Met’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond his musical career. He founded Planet Reimagined, a think tank focused on sustainability, and earned a PhD in human rights law and sustainable development. As an adjunct professor at Columbia University, Met educates students on climate policy and campaigning, highlighting how these fields can intersect.

During AJR’s Maybe Man Tour, the band encouraged political engagement among fans. They provided opportunities for fans to register to vote, sign petitions, and make calls to Congress members regarding local climate issues. Met emphasized the importance of tailoring these initiatives to the specific concerns of each city visited.

Met explained, “Phoenix was about asking FEMA to designate extreme heat as an emergency. We did something around the Great Salt Lake in Salt Lake City, and focused on forest fires in California. Engaging with fans on issues that directly affect their communities increases their willingness to participate both during and after the concert.”

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Climate Change’s Impact on the Music Industry

Extreme weather events, such as record-breaking hurricanes, have disrupted AJR’s tours. A Houston show was canceled due to Hurricane Beryl, illustrating how climate change affects various industries, including music. Met’s commitment to climate activism remains unwavering as the 2024 presidential election approaches.

Met has collaborated with influential figures such as former Secretary of State John Kerry and actress Jane Fonda on climate initiatives. He believes the Harris-Walz ticket will continue to make progress in addressing climate issues through investments in new technologies, infrastructure, and renewable energy sources.

Met’s work with the Department of Energy, the EPA, and the Department of the Interior aims to strengthen regulations and hold the private sector accountable for emissions. He advocates for transitioning businesses away from oil and gas, emphasizing the role of government in enforcing these changes.

He successfully gathered bipartisan support for streamlining permits for wind and solar projects. Met’s proposal focused on allowing indigenous communities to own renewable energy projects, ensuring environmental justice. Despite initial challenges, he found common ground with both Republicans and Democrats, highlighting the potential for cooperation on climate issues.

Tech Innovations and the Music Industry

Met believes the music industry should be early adopters of new technologies to reduce its environmental impact. He emphasizes the importance of investing in tech advancements to implement sustainable practices. The industry can lead by example, proving the feasibility of these innovations to the broader market.

During tours, AJR uses electric trucks and buses, and partners with organizations like Reverb to “green” the backstage area. This includes donating leftover food and providing reusable water bottles for the crew. Such practices create a sustainable experience for both the crew and fans.

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Standardizing these practices across the touring and live music industries is a long-term goal. Met believes that building sustainability into venue operations will reduce costs and educational barriers for artists and crews. This approach can make eco-friendly practices the norm rather than the exception.

Challenges remain, such as the need for additional personnel on smaller tours. However, integrating sustainability into venue standards can mitigate these issues. Met envisions a future where sustainable practices are a given, making it easier for artists at all levels to contribute to environmental efforts.

The Global Impact of Climate Change

Climate change disproportionately affects countries with the least responsibility for its causes. Met highlights the powerful role musicians can play in advocating for climate action. Their voices resonate with audiences, especially when their advocacy aligns with their music and public persona.

Met believes that musicians can drive significant change by holding both the private sector and government accountable. Collaboration among artists can amplify their impact, pushing for necessary investments to mitigate climate change’s devastating effects.

Met’s involvement in climate activism extends to his nonprofit, Planet Reimagined. The organization works on initiatives such as fixing the permitting process for renewable energy projects. This approach aims to transition businesses from oil and gas to wind and solar without disrupting additional land.

As the election nears, Met continues to engage with schools and communities, emphasizing the connection between various fields and climate issues. He believes that climate change is a universal concern that affects all aspects of life, from health to immigration.

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