How can you run an international dance festival with participants from all over the world without causing devastating ecological effects? We strongly believe that we have a responsibility to develop more sustainable alternatives for international touring and production that still allow us to come together, to celebrate, to experience art and culture, to enter into dialogue with one another.
In light of this, the issues of sustainability and ecology have become increasingly central to our work, particularly in view of climate change. The following policies, already implemented in the recent years, will also be realised in 2025:
Mobility & Transport
An international festival would not be possible without travelling, but we try to reduce air travel and increase train travel for the visiting companies. In order to reduce the ecological footprint of international touring and avoid long transport routes, we cooperate with other summer festivals wherever possible. Local transportation will primarily take place by (cargo) bicycle and public transport.
Accommodation
We make sure to accommodate our guests in hotels that are known for their climate and environmentally friendly practices and have the credentials to prove it. We place particular importance on finding accommodation that is within walking distance of the venues, in order to avoid travel by car.
Printed Products
Along with a continual reduction in our printed materials, these are produced on sustainable paper using non-toxic ink, and wherever possible, we use products with the ‘blue angel’ label. We continue our practice of only having digital evening leaflets and are working exclusively with local printers to reduce transport-related emissions.
Carbon Footprint
Our actions should be quantifiable. As a festival run by HAU Hebbel am Ufer, our data feed into HAU’s carbon footprint, meaning the impact of these measures is fully documented and evaluated after each festival edition. Our goal is to reduce the festival’s carbon impact every year.
