Wouldn't it be better for the environment if the Live Earth Concert was canceled?

Question

I just read an article that the promoters of Live Earth were saying that they want to make the concert part of the solution, and that they will be closely monitored for how they handle their power, emissions, etc.

Well, rock concerts are, it seems, a completely unproductive and unnecessary thing. There would be no environmental footprint if they simply didn't have the concert, isn't that true?

Can't they put together a public service announcement? Couldn't each rock star simply go out and spend their time educating individuals in a meaningful way about pollution and other issues? I mean, most of the people at the concerts are not going to be educated there. Why not take these resources, money and voices and put them into real education on the topic?

peacepusher - what information will be provided to the crowd (other than shouts of "Do you wanna save the world!?!?!?" and "Let's rock the world to stop global warming!"). I mean really - how much progress is going to be made by this that will really justify all the pollution - it's not just travel costs -- it's manufacturing all the equipment and stage set ups, and everything else that goes into producting a concert.....

Answer 1

You are exactly right. Unless they can point to a bunch of wind generators or solar cells next to the venue, they would be better off to assemble in a studio and send the concert out over the internet instead of demanding that everyone expend fossil fuel to see it in person.

Rest assured though, the envirofaithful will write off all the waste to "creating awareness".

Answer 2

I think it's a matter of lasting impact vs one-time greenhouse gas and noise emmissions. If the concert has a great line-up of performers who will promote the environment effectively, and pledge to continue promoting the cause, then the power and emmissions generated by the concert are worth it. The current and ongoing global warming crisis needs to gain critical mass awareness and action. A great rock concert can do that.

Answer 3

Would it reduce the CO2 production????