This is a pivotal moment for environmental action, and orchestras can play a unique and powerful role in driving necessary change. But how best to focus our efforts for genuine impact? In this first of three free webinars, which took place on 25 March 2025, our guest expert, Richard Phillips of Julie’s Bicycle – a prominent nonprofit dedicated to mobilizing climate action in the cultural sector – shares insights on how orchestras can drive positive change and reap the benefits of environmental stewardship. 

Watch Recording

Download Slide Deck

Presenter: Richard Phillips, Climate Change Specialist

Richard Phillips is a Climate Change Specialist for the music sector at culture and climate non-profit, Julie’s Bicycle. Richard works on sustainability initiatives across the live and recorded sides of the music industry. He is deeply embedded in the sector, working with festivals and venues, labels and tours. 

Richard provides expert advice on decarbonization strategies and delivers practical environmental action toolkits, technical carbon footprinting and more. He works in partnership with events such as the BRIT Awards, record label associations such as IMPALA, and sustainable festival network Vision:2025 on research projects for outdoor events. His most recent work includes leading a national pilot testing new environmental standards for outdoor events, covering 10 cities and 60 events.  

Richard is motivated by collaborative action on the climate crisis that can unlock the potential of the creative industries to inspire societal change. 

 

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts. 

 

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.