In 2007 Grist.org, an environment news and commentary site, posted an excellent comparison of the industries largest music festivals rating them along dimensions including recycling, green power, green exhibits, carbon offsets, green donations and organic/local food.   While Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits rated the strongest across all categories, South by Southwest, Bonnaroo and Bumbershoot were not far behind.  Both Coachella and Sasquatch! received the lowest ratings with two and one stars respectively.

With the 2008 Summer Music Festival season upon us Grist.org once again reviews the topic.  They start off referring to the unique approach taken by Coachella this year who organized an Amtrack train to bring LA residents out to the Indio, CA grounds.  Over 300 fans chose this “public transportation” route for their journey to the show and their train tickets were free.

Later this summer the Rothbury Festival during the July 4th holiday aims to be a concert with a purpose.  Rothbury features top music talent including Dave Mathews Band, John Mayer,  Thievery Corporation, The Dresden Dolls, Crystal Method, Beth Orton and many, many more.   In their own words, they provide the guidelines they have followed in organizing their event.  Many of these items should be considerations for any live event or tour planning:

ROTHBURY is dedicated to throwing a HUGE party… with a purpose. This July 4th weekend, ROTHBURY emerges as a new American celebration where music and cause join together to stir ideas, to awaken possibilities, and to empower through knowledge. And yeah, to have the time of our lives. [Read more →]

There are several options to consider to “offset” your music business’s Carbon Footprint.  Not all options are created equal.  Several sites review propular options and provide a comparison of the costs.  We cannot speak for the accuracy of the data in these surveys and sites but they do provide a good list of the options and an initial understanding of the costs for you to continue your research.

• Carbon Offset Review
• Carbon Emissions Offset Directory
• Carbon Offset on Wikipedia
• Carbon Management on The Open Directory Project

Have you or your company had any experiences with Carbon Offset Companies or Services?  Please provide your comments to this post.