Death to the CD Promo

Switching to digital delivery of music promotional releases across the independent music sector would save 1,525 tonnes of CO₂ annually – a reduction of 86% - new research conducted by Julie’s Bicycle on behalf of AIM and BPI has revealed.

Detailed research undertaken by industry environmental initiative Julie’s Bicycle estimates that the manufacture, packaging and transport of promo CDs by AIM and BPI indie members total 1,686 tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to three times the annual energy, water and waste emissions of a large performance arena.

The research follows the work undertaken by AIM following the '10 Big ideas' sessions at the anniversary of its 10th AGM in July 2009.  Reducing the number of physical promos was pinpointed as one of the winning ideas to emerge.

Here you win find the results of Judlie's Bicycle's research into the environmental impact of CD promos, information on the digital services that provide an alternative to CD promos, and some top tips for ensuring your music gets listened to by the media.