PEOPLE who love listening to music place a higher priority on tackling the climate crisis than those who do not, a new report has shown.
The study, by the University of Glasgow, called Turn Up The Volume draws on YouGov UK polling of 2,184 UK adults.
Results showed those who love a tune expect the music industry to do more about the climate emergency and sustainability.
The survey asked questions related to music, including how songs are listened to and purchased, and attitudes to environmental concerns.
The poll found that 82% of music fans were concerned about climate change compared with 72% of non-music fans.
The survey also found 54% of music lovers believed “tackling climate change should be a top priority now, above other issues” compared with 47% of non-fans.
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Dr Matt Brennan, who led the study, said: “The project findings are exciting because they demonstrate a clear relation between engaged music fandom, increased concern about climate change, and desire for action.
“Music culture has a long history of playing a key role in social movements, and the evidence shows this link is still strong in the present day when it comes to the climate emergency.
“It represents an opportunity for the music sector to play a more prominent role in accelerating a just and green transition.”
The poll also found that people who value music are prepared to engage with it in a more sustainable way.
For example, people who spend money on merchandise such as records opt for more sustainable products, while live event attendees said they will look to go to more sustainable-orientated music events.
MJ Olaore, of the BPI, the UK record labels association and a lead partner on the project said: “Addressing climate change is the critical issue facing all of us and, as this timely survey shows, it’s something that music fans really care about and are particularly determined to do something about.
“As an industry we need to harness this passion and commitment and drive lasting and meaningful long-term change as we look to decarbonise in a sustainable way.”
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