IMPALA, the European independent music companies association, is launching a sustainability programme to help make the European independent music sector more sustainable chaired and initiated by !K7 CEO Horst Weidenmüller. The package consists of a climate charter for IMPALA, overall targets and voluntary tools for members.
“IMPALA’s programme means we can plan ahead, provide real sustainability options for artists and develop flexible tools for members. Acting early isn’t just a climate question, it avoids disruption and carbon taxes. Credibility is important, so we are including the supply chain. Our ultimate ambition is to be carbon positive rather than just neutral. This is what sets IMPALA’s work apart in the music sector today.” – Horst Weidenmüller
IMPALA’s ambition is to aim for a climate positive membership by 2030, with an interim net zero target for 2026. These targets are voluntary for members and also lock in the idea that there is no one size fits all, as each company and country is different. Members will have access to guidance and training and will be able to use IMPALA’s voluntary climate declaration as well as other tools.
A project to develop the first carbon accounting tool specific to the recorded music sector is also in the pipeline. The calculator will cover the supply chain as well as label activities and IMPALA is open to working with partners to ensure maximum impact. Possible collective offsetting investment options will also be reviewed.
IMPALA’s work is cradled in a climate charter which sets out fifteen commitments for the organisation. Just last month, IMPALA took another step to implement its charter by asking streaming services to help assess and reduce the carbon footprint of digital music. This is one of IMPALA’s priorities set out in its ten step streaming plan.
IMPALA’s sustainability package was put together by a task force initiated by Horst Weidenmüller from !K7, with Alison Tickell from Julie’s Bicycle appointed as adviser, alongside a range of members including Will Hutton from Beggars Group and Peter Quicke from Ninja Tune who made up the team presenting the recommendations to IMPALA’s board. Read more about the programme here.
