The Music Sustainability Summit (MSS) has announced an exciting lineup of programming for its upcoming 2025 event, set to take place on February 3rd at Solotech Studios in Los Angeles. Produced by the Music Sustainability Alliance (MSA), this second edition of the conference will delve deep into the solutions needed to address the pressing climate change challenges facing the music industry, with a particular focus on the well-being of music fans.

Empowering the Music Industry to Lead the Charge in Sustainability

CEO Roundtable: Prioritizing Sustainability at the Highest Level

The 2025 MSS will kick off with a high-level CEO Roundtable, where industry leaders will share their insights on what it takes to truly prioritize sustainability within their organizations. These seasoned executives will explore the strategic decisions, operational shifts, and cultural transformations necessary to embed sustainability into the core of their businesses. Attendees can expect to gain invaluable perspectives on navigating the complexities of sustainable practices, aligning stakeholders, and driving meaningful change from the top down.

Who Takes the Lead? Aligning Agents, Managers, Promoters, and Venues

Recognizing the interconnected nature of the music industry, the MSS will host a panel discussion on the critical role that various stakeholders – from agents and managers to promoters and venue operators – play in driving progress towards sustainability. Attendees will learn how these key players can collaborate, coordinate, and collectively champion sustainable initiatives, ensuring a cohesive and impactful approach to addressing the climate crisis.

Beyond the Music: The Vital Role of Fans in Driving Change

The music industry's sustainability efforts cannot succeed without the active engagement and support of its most important stakeholders – the fans. This session will delve into the ways in which music fans can become catalysts for change, leveraging their collective influence to demand and support eco-friendly practices across the industry. Experts will share insights on empowering fans, fostering a sense of shared responsibility, and harnessing the power of grassroots movements to drive meaningful and lasting transformation.

Cancel Culture: Navigating the Challenges for Artists When Speaking Out

As the music industry increasingly embraces sustainability, artists have found themselves at the forefront of the movement, using their platforms to raise awareness and advocate for change. However, this has also exposed them to the risks of "cancel culture," where vocal support for environmental causes can sometimes lead to backlash and reputational damage. This panel will explore strategies for artists to navigate this delicate landscape, ensuring their voices are heard without jeopardizing their careers.

Gen Z's Vision: How the Next Generation Envisions the Industry's Climate Response

The future of the music industry lies in the hands of the younger generation, and the MSS will provide a platform for Gen Z to share their perspectives on how the industry should tackle the climate crisis. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the priorities, expectations, and innovative ideas of this tech-savvy, environmentally conscious demographic, helping to shape a more sustainable path forward.

Feeding at Scale: Can Plant-Based, Pro-Climate Foods Make a Real Impact at Events?

As the music industry seeks to reduce its environmental footprint, the catering and concessions offered at live events have come under increasing scrutiny. This session will explore the potential for plant-based, climate-friendly food options to make a meaningful impact, addressing the logistical challenges, cost considerations, and consumer acceptance of such initiatives. Attendees will learn from industry experts on how to successfully integrate sustainable food choices into their event operations.

Setting the Stage for Change: Blueprints for Greening Venues

Venues play a crucial role in the music industry's sustainability efforts, and the MSS will provide a platform for sharing best practices and innovative solutions for "greening" these spaces. From renewable energy sources and waste management systems to sustainable design and construction, attendees will gain valuable insights into the practical steps they can take to transform their venues into eco-friendly hubs that lead by example.

Energy Revolution: The Modern World of Clean Power to Decarbonize Shows

The energy demands of live music events have long been a significant contributor to the industry's carbon footprint. However, the rapid advancements in clean energy technologies are opening up new possibilities for decarbonizing the power behind these shows. This session will explore the latest innovations, cost-effective solutions, and implementation strategies that can help the music industry transition to a more sustainable energy future.

The Legal Landscape: Policies to Effect Change and Mitigate Greenwashing

As the music industry embraces sustainability, the legal and regulatory landscape has become increasingly complex, with a growing emphasis on transparency, accountability, and the prevention of greenwashing. This session will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the evolving policies, regulations, and best practices that can help organizations navigate this terrain and ensure their sustainability efforts are genuine and impactful.

Labels: The Pipeline of Music Production, Delivery, and Consumption

The music industry's sustainability efforts extend far beyond live events and venues, with the entire pipeline of music production, delivery, and consumption playing a crucial role. This session will delve into the ways in which record labels can lead the charge in implementing sustainable practices, from eco-friendly recording studios and manufacturing processes to innovative distribution models and consumer engagement strategies.