The Eras Tour has a huge carbon footprint. What’s a green Taylor Swift fan to do?

As Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour makes its way to Vancouver this weekend, environmentally conscious fans may find themselves grappling with the carbon footprint left behind by the mega pop star’s global spectacle. With nearly 150 shows across five continents and millions of fans in attendance, the tour has generated a staggering amount of fossil fuel emissions, particularly from Swift’s jet travel, which is equivalent to driving an average gas-powered vehicle over 2.1 million kilometers.

According to the Greenly Institute, the merchandise and fast fashion surrounding the shows also contribute significantly to a concert-goer’s carbon footprint. If each of the 25,000 attendees at each show were to purchase just one T-shirt, it would result in a staggering 19,370,000 kilograms of CO2 emissions, not to mention the environmental impact of plastic rhinestones and beads.

As concerns about climate change continue to mount, can fans in good conscience enjoy a Taylor Swift concert without feeling guilty about the environmental repercussions? Pilar Pedrinelli, a career climate activist, acknowledges the conflicting emotions that arise when balancing one’s love for an artist with environmental concerns. Pedrinelli, who won tickets to a Toronto show as part of her activism, suggests that it’s possible to appreciate an artist’s work while also advocating for more sustainable practices.

Experts emphasize the importance of mindfulness from all parties involved in large-scale events like the Eras Tour. Laurel Besco, a professor of urban geography and environment, believes that there is an opportunity to reduce the environmental impact of concerts and tourism through collective efforts. While venues like B.C. Place Stadium in Vancouver have made strides towards sustainability with LED lights and greener water practices, attendees also play a role in advocating for eco-friendly measures.

Julius Lindsay, director of sustainable communities at the David Suzuki Institute, highlights the importance of engagement from participants in environmental and climate action. By pushing for initiatives like reusable water bottles and bans on environmentally harmful materials, concert-goers can contribute to a greener event experience. Ultimately, the solutions lie within local communities, where individuals can work together to minimize the environmental impact of large-scale events like the Eras Tour.

As fans eagerly anticipate Taylor Swift’s performances in Vancouver, they have an opportunity to enjoy the music while also promoting sustainability within the entertainment industry. By advocating for eco-friendly practices and supporting venues that prioritize environmental initiatives, concert-goers can show that their love for music can coexist with a commitment to protecting the planet.