What's Happening?
The Gallery Climate Coalition (GCC), a membership organization focused on sustainability in the art world, has released its first Stocktake Report. The report reveals that four-fifths of GCC members, who
began tracking their carbon output in 2019, have reduced emissions by more than 25%. This progress positions them to potentially halve emissions by 2030. The GCC, which includes over 2,000 members from more than 60 countries, suggests that the global art sector could collectively cut over five million tonnes of CO₂ annually. This reduction is comparable to the annual emissions of countries like Nicaragua, Albania, and Mauritius. Frances Morris, former director of the Tate Modern and current chair of the GCC, emphasized the importance of integrating creativity with climate action to transform the art sector and its influence on the wider world.
Why It's Important?
The findings from the GCC highlight the art sector's potential role in global climate action. By significantly reducing carbon emissions, the sector can contribute to broader environmental goals and set an example for other industries. The report underscores the need for cultural transformation alongside technical solutions, suggesting that the arts can play a critical role in addressing systemic issues related to overconsumption and disconnection. The involvement of artists and creatives in climate discussions, as evidenced by an open letter signed by over 200 figures urging world leaders to incorporate storytelling and the arts into climate action, further emphasizes the sector's potential impact.
What's Next?
The GCC invites its members and allies to participate in the next phase of climate action, aiming to integrate creativity with environmental efforts. As nations gather at COP30 in Brazil, the open letter from artists and creatives calls for the arts to be central in future climate negotiations. This initiative seeks to inspire societal change and communicate climate risks effectively. The art sector's continued commitment to sustainability could influence other industries and contribute to achieving global net-zero targets.
Beyond the Headlines
The GCC's report and the open letter highlight the broader cultural implications of climate action. By involving the arts in climate discussions, there is potential for a shift in public perception and engagement with environmental issues. The emphasis on storytelling and creativity could lead to innovative approaches to climate communication and inspire collective action. This cultural transformation may address deeper systemic issues and foster a more sustainable future.
