Harnessing Concert Energy for Climate Action
In Denver’s Ball Arena, the indie pop group AJR captivated their audience with a synchronized wave, uniting thousands of fans. Adam Met, the band’s bassist and climate advocate, seeks to channel this collective energy towards impactful climate initiatives.
Met, who leads the climate non-profit Planet Reimagined, believes in the power of concert settings. “Can we actually capture that power in the concert space and make use of it to get people to do something more?” he said.
During their Maybe Man tour, AJR has partnered with local nonprofits in each city to motivate fans to engage in climate activism. These efforts are aimed at reducing human-caused climate impacts.
In Salt Lake City, concertgoers sent 625 letters and 77 postcards to legislators about water conservation. In Phoenix, over 1,000 letters were sent to city officials, urging them to address extreme heat as a climate crisis.
Artists as Catalysts for Change
An increasing number of musicians are using their platforms to raise awareness about climate change. According to Lucy August-Perna from Live Nation, “We’re seeing more and more artists and venues increasing their ambitions around sustainability.”
Notable performers like Billie Eilish have highlighted climate issues during shows. Eilish emphasized at Lollapalooza, “Most of this show is being powered by solar right now.”
Other bands, including Dave Matthews Band and My Morning Jacket, have also collaborated with activist groups to inform fans about local environmental efforts.
AJR’s strategy stands out due to its consistent local engagement. “In every single market, we have something very local and meaningful and impactful happening,” noted Lara Seaver from Reverb.
Measuring the Impact
Planet Reimagined reports that 12,000 fans participated in climate-related actions during AJR’s tour. These actions included signing petitions, sending letters, making donations, and volunteering.
Research shows that concertgoers are willing to engage in climate actions. A study by Planet Reimagined and Live Nation revealed that fans of artists like Taylor Swift and Beyonce are open to climate initiatives.
Met emphasized the importance of local relevance. “If it’s affecting them and their community personally, they’re so much more likely to take action,” he said.
Additionally, artists need to model these actions themselves. “Fans have this deep connection to artists,” Met added. “So there is much more impact if the artist says, ‘Will you join me in doing this?'”
Local Actions and Broader Implications
At a Denver concert, AJR fans scanned QR codes to support a campaign against fracking. This process, which extracts oil and gas, is a significant source of pollution but also big business in Colorado.
Representatives from 350 Colorado engaged concertgoers, encouraging them to support the initiative. “It’s a good way to connect music enjoyment with environmental action,” said fan Robin Roston.
Over two performances, 179 fans took action for the phase-out fracking campaign. Although 125,000 signatures are needed for the 2026 ballot, every bit helps, said Bobbie Mooney from 350 Colorado.
Psychology professor Cindy McPherson Frantz from Oberlin College highlighted the collective energy at concerts. “The fact that everyone around us is doing something makes us dramatically more likely to do it ourselves,” she noted.
coratempest
I’m impressed but curious – do they also focus on making their tours more sustainable in terms of travel and production?
Emma_Flux
Why is it always the indie bands doing the cool stuff? Major respect to AJR for this. 👍
lucy
Sounds like a great initiative, but how do they ensure fans’ actions are actually making a difference?
ian_luminescence
Are there other bands or artists who are doing similar things at their concerts? Would love to support more!
ArianaShadowdancer9
This is incredible!! I’ve always loved AJR but now I love them even more for what they’re doing for the planet! 😍
kennedy
While I appreciate the effort, how effective do you think these actions really are in making a long-term impact?
Shadow_Wanderer
Isn’t it amazing how music can bring people together for such important causes? Kudos to AJR!
jasmineharmony
Wow, I’m so inspired by AJR’s efforts! How can I get involved in these climate initiatives at their concerts? 🌱