Net-zero toolkit launched for European theatres

A new guide has been published to help theatres in Europe reach net-zero emissions by 2030.

The ETC Theatre Green Book is a partnership between the European Theatre Convention (ETC) and Renew Culture, the creators of the original Theatre Green Book.

The new tool provides a step-by-step guide to hitting net zero and is available as a free download.

It includes the first-ever self-certification for sustainability in theatre, available at four different levels: preliminary, basic, intermediate and advanced.

Reaching each level involves meeting increasingly stringent requirements on energy use or the reuse of materials.

The book is part of the ETC’s Sustainable Action Code and its pledge to be climate-neutral by 2030.

ETC Executive Director Heidi Wiley said: "There is no question that European theatres have the desire to become sustainable organisations. The issue is how to make this change happen in an effective and efficient way across an entire continent."

"We believe that networks of theatres can play a crucial role in supporting our sector to overcome challenges and push themselves to become climate neutral.

"We’re incredibly excited to be partnering with Renew Culture and the Theatre Green Book to make sure this happens at scale across Europe."