Greening Efforts

Walking the Talk: Our Effort to Lighten the Load
Because there's no "silver bullet" to solve environmental issues, we are using the "silver buckshot" method in our efforts to be green - implementing small changes, but a lot of them, every day, and everywhere we can. ACL is a carbon neutral event thanks to the assistance of Green Mountain Energy. Here are some other things we're doing to lighten our load:

Energy
We are running biodiesel in every generator and light tower on festival grounds. This not only improves air quality by reducing carbon monoxide emissions, particulate matter emissions, and other carcinogens, but they also run a lot quieter.

Food
In addition to using more organic, locally grown choices by backstage catering ops and "Austin Eats" food vendors, we require all food to be served on paper or compostable plates. To lessen waste, we do not allow vendors to give out "picnic packs", encourage hand-held food choices and require all food areas to use toxic-free cleansers. And just so you know, Styrofoam is banned throughout the festival.

Drink
We'll be recycling water bottles and drink cups (#1 and #5 plastics). Drop off a stack of souvenir beer cups at the recycle booth and receive valuable rewards. And on your way out at night, stop back by - we'll give you a wrapped stack of cups to take home with you. You'll have a handful of ACL memories to use through the year!

Merchandise
We are offering several organic and sustainable goods in the store. We're using biodegradable bags instead of plastic. Volunteer T's will be totally organic, too.

Paper
From TP and food napkins to marketing materials - we're using recycled paper all around. We're also recycling cardboard and replacing portalet paper towels with hand sanitizer.

Waste
With the help of our vendors and non-profit partners, we've banned the distribution of promotional paper handouts on festival grounds.

Sponsors
All have pledged enthusiastic support. For example, Blackstone Wine cups will be biodegradable, as will the iTunes free download cards. And not one of our sponsors will be handing out paper promotional items.

Corporate Office
In addition to recycled paper, non-toxic cleansers, and battery and printer cartridge recycling, we're working with Green Mountain to make our office 100% carbon neutral.

Bottom Line
You get the idea. We're committed to improving our environment and finding more ways to do our part. And if we can contribute great music experiences along the way, the journey will be that much more rewarding.

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