Sustainability holistically

For the BFDK, sustainable production in the performing arts means combining environmental responsibility with social justice and artistic freedom. These principles constitute the basis of the toolkit, which is intended as a practical instrument for stakeholders in the independent performing arts and in independent music ensembles.

Sustainability in the sense of the UN Sustainable Development Goals is to be understood as a holistic strategy. A strategy that combines environmental, social, economic, cultural and inclusive dimensions such as anti-discrimination and accessibility.

Sustainability as social and structural change

Sustainable production requires the responsible and fair use of resources. However, for production processes to change, sustainable production must be thought of in intersectional terms and space must be afforded to different socio-economic living and working realities. The toolkit is intended to be a practical suggestion, not a source of pressure. Sustainability is effective when it can be realised by as many people as possible.

This change is a long-term process that takes time: Time to question and unlearn routines, integrate new ways of thinking and embrace different ways of working. It is not about changing everything overnight, rather it is a continuous process that is integrated into everyday working life. Sustainability must not be seen as an additional task; it must become part of regular working hours and daily practice. This is the only way that those working in the liberal arts can bring about long-term change. This requires a space for reflection. This is where working methods can be reviewed and further developed.

Protect resources – strengthen structures

Sustainability includes the mindful use of one’s own resources. It requires space for self-care and resilient structures. Only in this way can sustainable behaviour be integrated and embedded in everyday working life in the long term. Communication is a key aspect of this: talking about sustainable goals early and continuously ensures that everyone involved is aware of the shared task and takes responsibility. Communication must take place both within the team and in dialogue with partners and the public in order to ensure broad support for sustainable change. The change towards sustainable work cannot be supported by the stakeholders alone; funding structures and infrastructures need to change also. Specific recommendations for policymakers and funding organisations are listed in the “Sustainable funding” section.