Theater is a fun way to tell stories and entertain people, but it also has some negative effects on the environment that many people might not think about. When a theater group puts on a show, they often need to build sets, create costumes, and use lots of lights and sound equipment. For example, building a set usually means using a lot of wood and other materials. This can lead to deforestation, which is when trees are cut down and not replaced. Cutting down trees can hurt wildlife and contribute to climate change. Additionally, the traditional lighting used in theaters can take up a lot of energy, which often comes from non-renewable sources like coal or natural gas. This means that even though theater productions are entertaining, they can also add to air pollution and increase greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. Some theaters are starting to use energy-efficient LED lights, which can help reduce energy consumption, but many companies still rely on older, less eco-friendly options. Another problem with theater is all the waste it generates. When a show ends, the sets, costumes, and props usually get thrown away or end up in landfills, which takes up space and can pollute the soil and water. Many costumes are made just for one show or event, which means they are not reused or recycled afterward. This is a missed opportunity because many of these materials could be repurposed for future shows or donated to schools or other community organizations. For instance, some theaters have started programs to recycle materials or even use thrifted items for costumes, reducing waste while still creating fantastic looks for performances. On top of these issues, touring productions travel from city to city, which means they have to transport actors, crew members, and equipment. This takes a lot of fuel and contributes to carbon emissions as well. While theater can inspire people to care about the environment, it is essential for the industry to find better ways to be eco-friendly. If theater companies start thinking about how they can reduce their impact on the environment, they can enjoy the magic of performing while also protecting our planet. More and more theaters are beginning to recognize the importance of sustainability, and as they adopt these environmentally friendly practices, they can inspire audiences to make positive changes in their own lives too.
Related Stories:
https://blog.etcconnect.com/2021/04/impact-of-theatres-on-the-environment
https://lilywielandsm.com/theatre-environmental-degradation
https://guides.library.cmu.edu/theatrecology
Take Action:
https://theboar.org/2019/11/theatre-attention-climate-change/
https://www.americantheatre.org/2018/10/23/make-theatre-not-waste/
https://www.shaftesburytheatre.com/about-us/sustainability/
https://www.europeantheatre.eu/publication/can-theatres-save-the-world-from-the-climate-crisis
