Coldplay, often referred to as the most socially conscious band, have set a challenging goal for themselves – to make their world tour sustainable in every possible way. They aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and using a highly efficient electric battery system that entirely depends on renewable energy sources.
However, the recent addition of two profitable shows to their tour in Perth, Australia, has raised questions about the band’s commitment to their environmental goals. It remains to be seen whether Coldplay’s actions align with the values they preach.
Eyebrows have been raised in the music industry about the detour from Asia to Oz where they will spend just two nights performing – but potentially make millions.
Because, despite repeated claims in a very lengthy statement, it appears that the self-professed gods of green are racking up quite a carbon footprint.
In their mission statement, posted on their website and Instagram account, Devon-born Martin and his co-stars claim their Music Of Spheres World Tour will be as ‘environmentally beneficial as possible and reduce our direct carbon emissions (from show production, freight, band and crew travel)’.
During the Asian leg of their tour, the band is taking a detour to fly from Jakarta, Indonesia, where they have a concert on Wednesday, to Australia. Afterwards, they will fly another 2,600 miles back to Kuala Lumpur in time for their performance on November 22. It is believed that all of the flights are on private jets.
One insider said: “Of course, Australia wants to see Coldplay and they need to get there somehow but to bleat on about reducing carbon emissions and then travel those distances does make you question whether that was the right decision to make.”
Both concerts at Perth’s Optus Stadium are sold out – with 120,000 tickets sold and the band looking at a return of around £12million. And Coldplay fans have been promised a ‘spectacular show’ which will be ‘bursting with lasers, fireworks and LED wristbands’.
The band claims that the laser lighting they use is energy efficient as it is powered by an electric battery system. However, the fireworks they use emit greenhouse gases upon combustion. Furthermore, while Martin and his bandmates have emphasized that the LED wristbands can be returned and re-used, experts in the industry say that fans rarely do so.
