Radiohead collect postcards for Scottish Parliament

Posted on June 27th, 2008.

When Radiohead are playing Glasgow Green tonight, Scottish fans will be asked to back a campaign to tackle climate change. The band are encouraging people to lobby their MSPs and push for an effective law as part of Friends of the Earth’s Big Ask campaign.

Fans at the gig will be asked to sign postcards calling on First Minister Alex Salmond to introduce a Climate Bill at Holyrood. The postcards will be collected and delivered to the Scottish Parliament.

Thom Yorke: “We’re doing what we can to tackle climate change and encourage our fans to do the same. It’s time our politicians play their part as they are the only ones who can put the structures in place that will help us.

“That’s why I am supporting the Big Ask Scotland and asking anyone who cares about climate change to support it too, either by taking action at one of our concerts or online at www.bigaskscotland.org.uk”

Chief executive of Friends of the Earth Scotland, Duncan McLaren, said: “Radiohead have shown that we can all work to combat climate change, both in our own lives and by insisting decision-makers take action. Through our collaboration with Radiohead, Friends of the Earth Scotland and the Big Ask Scotland campaign is giving people the means to let politicians hear their calls for action on climate change.”

Friends of the Earth wants new climate change laws to force the UK Government to cut emissions of carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas, by 3% each year. In Scotland, the organisation is calling for a limit on the total amount of emissions, including carbon dioxide and methane, released between now and 2050.

Friends of the Earth praise Radiohead for their new approach on touring and attempts to reduce their carbon footprint. All of the band’s merchandise is also now made from recycled materials. Spokeswoman Anna Mitchell is delighted with the results - insisting Radiohead should be applauded for their efforts: “I’m not sure whether it is the most environmentally friendly tour ever, but it certainly feels like it. They are doing everything they possibly can to cut emissions. it’s incredibly impressive.”

Radiohead’s production manager Richard Young: “In the past it would be normal for a band to airfreight 20 tonnes of equipment between continents. Now they take just they need. Essentially it’s 12 guitars and two laptops.”

The tour also uses reusable water containers rather than plastic bottles, and low energy LED lights - with one unexpected downside. The new LED lights don’t give out as much heat as traditional lights, meaning Thom and the rest of the band now have to wear extra layers of clothing at some of their colder shows.