Attendees at an MU workshop express their solidarity with the global climate strike. Photo credit: Musicians' Union
Thanks to the motion passing, the Labour Party is now committed to:
- Leading the world in efforts to keep global average temperature rises below 1.5%
- Working towards net zero carbon emissions by 2030
- Creating well-paid, unionised green jobs
The MU has already signed up to Music Declares Emergency, and is working with Julie’s Bicycle to ensure that the music industry plays its part in responding to the climate emergency.
Speaking in support, a Fire Brigades Union delegate prompted a standing ovation when he told conference:
“They will tell us ambitious targets are impossible to achieve. They told us abolishing slavery was impossible. They told us creating the NHS was impossible. But we did it. We can do this.”
Every industry must play its part in addressing the climate crisis
MU Deputy General Secretary Naomi Pohl says:
“It was inspiring to see the determination and ambition of Labour Party Conference delegates moving motions on the climate crisis.
“The Musicians’ Union believes we need to be ambitious in order to bring the climate crisis to a halt. This is one of the biggest issues facing humanity today but possible for all time. Every industry must play its part in addressing it.
“We will be working with Julie’s Bicycle and other industry organisations to advise our members on reducing their carbon footprints. We know touring presents some particular challenges for musicians but there are improvements we can make if we work together. This issue must be at the top of our collective agenda.”
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