Planet, Profit, Polarisation & Politics Tackled at Green Events & Innovations Conference
The Green Events & Innovations Conference (GEI) welcomed over 400 delegates to the Royal Lancaster London for the 18th edition on 24th February, uniting Industry leaders, artists, indigenous voices, scientists, and more.
The event tackled critical sustainability topics and demonstrated that the events sector is leading the way in innovation, collaboration, and creativity to reduce environmental impacts, and that going green makes financial sense.
Many deep and moving discussions took place throughout the day, demonstrating a united stance on standing up for values, listening, and bringing people together, rather than feeding division.
Dale Vince OBE (Ecotricity) and Kneecap’s manager, Dan Lambert, were hosted by Claire O’Neill (AGF) and gave first-hand insights in Cancel Me, Cancel You: Values, Boycotts and Cancel Culture. Lambert said “At Coachella, [Kneecap] went to say something no one else was willing to say. But they said something factual and correct. They’re not easy decisions, but you have to make each one on its own merits. If you’re brave enough to speak, actually speak,” adding “it’s far more important for [the band] to have credibility.”
Both reflected on the backlash from powerful figures, politicians, and media, especially when speaking up for Palestine. Despite the kickback and various threats, the duo agreed that taking a stand is more important than all else. “The things we’re saying are truths, and we can’t be prevented from saying them,” Vince concluded.
Vince also joined Chris Packham CBE to introduce Saturday Night Beaver with Ecotalk, in which they discussed ways that we can protect nature. Packham said “At festivals, when they get there and are in a receptive state, it’s a perfect place to say think about that but think about this ,” with Vince going on to slam the impacts of the food industry: “We’re being abused by big food. It cowers our government, and the right wing media assists that.”
In EarthPercent Hour, Anna Calvi said, “A child looks at the world and thinks it's incredible and that gives you hope, and I think that inspired me to be more proactive.” While David Gray spoke passionately about his fundraising for restoring a salt marsh. “I wanted to do something more direct and relatable.” Adding “I don't see much evidence of caring for the natural world. Wouldn't it be wonderful if every venue had a [charity that it raised funds for] or was at least involved in raising awareness for what was local to it.”
He continued “So it's not just a picture of a kingfisher on the website of Live Nation, or whatever, because they gave 50 grand to somebody last year. It's something much more meaningful. It's those people taking the time to become involved in something… Without the connection and the love of what's there, an understanding of taking our place within the world of nature, how are we going to preserve it?”
Delegates were inspired by critically acclaimed immersive audiovisual project TAKKUUK, featuring a mindblowing performance from Katarina Barruk in the endangered indigenous Ume Sámi language, and heard about Sam Fender’s 100% eHGV European Tour, Hannah Cox running 100 marathons in 100 days across a colonial customs line in India, and Ash Perrin’sThe Flying Seagull Project that entertains children in refugee camps and war zones.
AGF launched their digital platform for green event and venue certifications, digitalising 20 years of sustainability expertise in Industry Initiatives: Research and Tools for a Greener Live Sector, alongside industry research case studies. The session closed with Green Deal Circular Festivals handing the reins of its green festival community over to YOUROPE.
Water security was the main topic of Riders on the Storm, which explored climate adaptation for events, with Dr Mohammad Shamsudduha (University College London) stating that “The most underestimated risk to this sector is water stress. We think about being climate neutral. We need to start thinking about being water neutral.”
Solutions for renewable energy for all venues were discussed in Green Light For Venues: Live Events Energy Scheme (LEES). LEES is a collaboration founded to provide an “energy basket” purchasing model to access affordable renewable energy for venues with Ecotricity. Patricia Yagüe (Live Nation) highlighted that "Sustainability now makes sense financially."
In Beyond the Burger Van, hosted by Clare Every (Little London Vegan), Petra Daniëls (Paradise City, Belgium) said, “You can still make money by being plant-based.” Adding, “We should be aware of the possible impact we can make; we can really drive change in a positive way.” In A Greener Tour Round VI, Jamal Chalabi (AGF / Backlash Productions) said a way forward is to “pay the arena for the electricity for the trucks, instead of fossil fuel companies, so it's a win-win,” and Françoise Cardoso (L-Acoustics) said that “Profit and sustainability go hand in hand.”
The social, economic, and environmental impacts of AI on the industry were also discussed in AI and Sustainability – highlighting the increase in water consumption by using AI. “[It uses up] one bottle of water for every 100 words on Chat GPT, which gives you some sort of scale,” stated A Greener Future’s Dr Teresa Moore.
Elsewhere, industry leaders shared solutions for audience travel and touring emissions, from product manufacturing to lifecycle analysis to slow touring; How to Achieve a 90% Recycling Rate presented insights from LIDO Festival and Radio 2 Big Weekend; Sustainable Cities: Taking Diesel Out Of Events brought together teams from Liverpool UN Accelerator City, Bristol City Council, and Massive Attack's Act 1.5 to explore real-world initiatives and the critical role cities can play in accelerating the transition to cleaner, greener event ecosystems.
And in Room 3, an additional space for this year, 12 important reports and case studies were presented, including: Touring: Climate & Sustainability Policy Research; Deep Dive Into Toilets: The Loos You Choose; Climate Transition Plan 2030 For UK Outdoor Events; and Big Team’s No Sustainability Without Diversity.
The International AGF Awards sponsored by Skydiamond concluded the day. Madame Gandhi performed an amazing live set before the event, and winners included M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, UK; DGTL, The Netherlands; and Sam Fender’s People Watching for a 100% electric truck tour. View all winners here.
GEI is a partnership between green event pioneers A Greener Future (AGF) and the world’s leading platform for the live music and entertainment sector, the International Live Music Conference (ILMC), and was kindly supported by Ecotricity Business, TAIT, AEG & The O2.
More information at agreenerfuture.com
Winners Revealed for the International AGF Awards 2026
A Greener Future has revealed the 2026 International AGF Award Winners at the Green Events & Innovations Conference, highlighting the world's greenest in the live sector from music festivals and venues, to Sam Fender’s fully electric truck Tour, People Watching.
The 18th edition of the 2026 International AGF Awards supported by Skydiamond and hosted by Musician and Activist Madame Gandhi, Ash Perrin, The Flying Seagull Project and AGF CEO Claire O’Neill, celebrated the most innovative and outstanding festivals, events, venues and organisations from events and venues worldwide over the last 12 months, at the Royal Lancaster London on 24th February.
Finalists of the awards included 28 events, venues and innovators from 14 countries with awards presented across ten important sustainability categories, including power, water, food, and travel, and the top accolades of the International Greener Festival Award and International Greener Arena Award 2026. Winning festivals and venues were from Estonia, India, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and the UK.
One of the top accolades - the International Greener Festival Award 2026 - went to DGTL, (NL), who also won the Greener Transport Award, with a plant based menu, renewable energy, and most attendees travelling by public transport, bike or foot.
Upon receiving the award, the festival's Sustainability Manager Esmee Bouwmeister said:
“We are very happy with this recognition again. It's really important AGF and things like this exist because it creates a playing field and standard and we learn from it alot. Thank you very much.”
The International Greener Arena Award was a first time win for M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, UK “This was our first year going for accreditation and thanks to everyone at AGF. We are on a journey to get net zero by 2030 and this shows we are on the right track, so thanks for the award” said M&S Arena’s Dominic Parker.
Another first time winner was the Estonian Fashion Festival with Cätlyn Tamm accepting the award saying “It’s been a pleasure working with the AGF team and thanks to everyone who made this happen.” In what is known as a high ‘throw away’ business, they showed another way, and won the Circular Event Award, commitment to circularity and sustainability from their reusable materials to promotion of slow fashion.
India’s Echoes of Earth take home an award for the second year running, this year winning the Community Action Award for embedding community at the heart of its identity, prioritising local employment, regional artists, grassroots partnerships and year-round engagement through The Greener Side initiative.
Paradise City in Belgium won the Greener Catering Award for their fully plant-based food offer delivered through a strict Green Charter, Spain’s Sonidos Líquidos won the Pied Piper Award for their communication of sustainability beyond the event; and for their commitment to raising awareness about the protection of the environment and the biodiversity of the geopark in which the festival takes place. The Greener Power Award went to Øyafestivalen in Norway for 100% renewable grid energy.
Portugal’s Boom Festival continues to set an international benchmark for water stewardship and sanitation design at scale winning the Water & Sanitation Award and the Greener Innovations Award went to Sam Fender’s 100% eHGV People Watching Tour.
Owain Davies OD Management and Richard Burnett MD at KB events accepted the award on the night with Richard saying: “I can’t tell you how proud we are to get this nomination and award. The commitment from Sam and Owain to try and attempt [a fully electric truck tour], it's groundbreaking. We’re at the frontline of driving sustainability at a transport perspective. Thank you very much indeed.”
Full list of 2026 International AGF Award winners:
International Greener Festival Award (Supported by Earth Positive) - DGTL (NL)
International Greener Arena Award (Supported by Universal Pixels) - M&S Bank Arena, (UK)
Greener Transport Award (Supported by KB Event) - DGTL (NL)
Circular Event Award - Estonian Fashion Festival (EE)
Community Action Award - Echoes of Earth (IN)
Greener Catering Award (Supported by Peppermint Bars & Events) - Paradise City (BE)
Pied Piper Award - Sonidos Líquidos (ES)
Greener Power Award (Supported by GeoPura) - Øyafestivalen (NO)
Water & Sanitation Award - Boom Festival (PT)
Greener Innovations Award (Supported by L-Acoustics) - 100% eHGV European Tour @ Sam Fender (UK)
Finalists are selected from all AGF certified Greener Events, Festivals and Arenas over the past year, with top scores across key sustainability criteria. Applicants undergo a detailed assessment, site visits, and analysis by AGF auditors. Additionally, green innovations from festivals and events have been selected and are judged by an independent jury.
Sponsored by Skydiamond, The International AGF Award ceremony took place during GEI, organised by AGF in partnership with the ILMC (International Live Music Conference)
About AGF
AGF is a not-for-profit company committed to helping the events sector towards sustainability worldwide. AGF provides certification, education & training, consultancy, sustainable event management, and facilitates the exchange and implementation of good ideas. They share best practice for greener events, and how to not only prevent damage but actually enhance the environment. AGF provides independent assessment and verification of sustainability claims through the AGF Certification for festivals, venues, events and suppliers, sustainability diagnosis and detailed carbon footprinting. More info: www.agreenerfuture.com
About ILMC
Attracting 1,700+ of the world’s top live music professionals from over 40 countries annually, the International Live Music Conference has been the foremost meeting place for live music professionals worldwide for nearly 40 years. In addition to its main conference, ILMC also produces Futures Forum, Touring Entertainment LIVE, and the International Festival Forum. More info: https://ilmc.com/
BAD looks back on successful first edition creating a cultural hub for electronic music in Buenos Aires
From 11th to 16th February, Buenos Aires Dance (BAD) brought together the electronic music community from the region and beyond, with exclusive events, educational program, networking opportunities and pop-ups plus performances by world-renowned DJs and local stars including Richie Hawtin, Indira Pagnotto and Carlita.
Transforming the city into a living stage for an entire week, BAD created an important space for exchange, learning and cultural expression with a complete week of industry immersion, uniting DJs, producers, promoters, managers, labels, bookers, and educators from across the globe. Over 2000 people attended talks and workshops with leading local and international figures took place at the iconic The Usina del Arte building from 12th to 13th February, just days before the start of ULTRA Buenos Aires on 14th and 15th February at Parque de la Ciudad.
Exclusive Pop-Up events also took place across the city with Richie Hawtin performing at the Floralis Generica on Thursday February 12th, with a special “El Preferido" ice cream Kiosk. On Friday 13th, electronic music fans were treated to two special sessions with Indira Paganotto at Caminito and Carlita at Puente de la Mujer, Above and Beyond also treated fans to Meet & Greet on Monday 16th at the Obelisco.
The Usina del Arte provided the perfect setting for an event that connects past, present, and future with speakers included Richie Hawtin, Indira Paganotto, Carlita, Fran Bortolossi, Kolombo, and Miguel Bastida as well as key figures from the local scene including Jay De Lys, Juan Hansen, Emiliano Demarco, Mariano Mellino, will strengthen the connection between the global scene and the Latin American community. In addition, Victoria Engel, Inda Jani, La Cintia, and Lolu Menayed took part in a special “Women in Music” talk, ligned with the global movement toward gender equity in the industry. Representatives from Ableton, Billboard, Sony Music Entertainment, Spotify, Ultra Records and William Morris Entertainment also participated in talks and workshops at BAD.
Other artists playing at some of the city's best-loved venues during the week included Dom Dolla Charlotte de Witte, Joseph Capriati, O.Bee and Tomas Station, Indira Paganotto and Massano.
BAD - More Than an Event - A Platform for Transformation
For more information here: www.isbad4you.com
Live Sector Tackles Biodiversity, Boycotts & Climate at GEI18
Green Events and Innovations Conference (GEI), the foremost conference for sustainability through live music, sport, and culture, is gearing up for its 18th edition on Tuesday, 24th February at the Royal Lancaster London, with the full agenda now revealed.
A partnership between green event pioneers A Greener Future (AGF) and the world’s leading platform for the live music and entertainment sector, the International Live Music Conference (ILMC), GEI18 will tackle the hottest topics facing the industry with a jam-packed programme across three rooms, a networking and exhibitor lounge, and a five-star plant-based lunch. The event also includes the International AGF Awards and access to Soho Calling music showcase festival taking place across multiple venues in central London on 25th February.
Joining the GEI lineup for the first time is conservationist and broadcaster Chris Packham CBE, who will speak alongside Ecotricity’s Dale Vince OBE as the duo introduce Saturday Night Beaver with Ecotalk, discussing ways we can protect nature. And Vince is later joined by Kneecap’s manager, Dan Lambert, who will provide first-hand insight into cancel culture and boycotts in Cancel Me, Cancel You: Values, Boycotts and Cancel Culture.
EarthPercent Hour returns with multi-award-winning singer-songwriters Anna Calvi and David Gray joining co-executive director of EarthPercent Cathy Runciman to discuss musical journeys, inspiration, community, and planetary care in GEI’s keynote session – Unleashing the Power of Music in Service of the Planet.
There will be live performances from Tobias Turley (MAMMA MIA!), who stars as Humanity in the award-winning pop musical Hot Mess, and Katarina Barruk, who collaborated with Bicep on the critically acclaimed immersive audiovisual project TAKKUUK, singing in the critically endangered language of Ume Sámi.
In Art For Earth's Sake: The Power of Storytelling multi-award-winning artist Doddz and Ellie Coote, director and writer of Hot Mess will explore two storytelling artforms, using both age-old and emerging tools of communication, and Extraction Vs. Connection will spotlight those using creativity, events, and collective agency to build bridges and reconnect to real humanity.
Beyond the Burger Van, presented by Petra Daniëls of Paradise City festival and hosted by one of the UK’s leading voices in plant-based foods and sustainable living, Clare Every (The Little London Vegan), will explore the revolution in festival catering through the lens of Belgium's pioneering Paradise City.
Riders on the Storm explores climate adaptation for events; and Sustainable Cities: Taking Diesel Out Of Events brings together teams from Liverpool UN Accelerator City, Bristol City Council, and Massive Attack's Act 1.5 to explore real-world initiatives and the critical role cities can play in accelerating the transition to cleaner, greener event ecosystems.
The importance of data and research is highlighted in Industry Initiatives: Research and Tools for a Greener Live Sector, where delegates will hear research from MIT and the UK outdoor event sector, from AGF on digitalising 20 years of sustainability expertise, and YOUROPE’s update on the European Green Festival Roadmap 2030. AI and Sustainability discusses the issues around the social, economic, and environmental impacts of AI on the industry.
A Greener Tour Round VI returns featuring insights from Sam Fender's eHGV tour, the battery systems used on Coldplay’s tour, Massive Attack’s revolutionary actions, key industry manufacturer L-Acoustics, and the colossal work of TAIT and the Live Events Energy Scheme (LEES) founded by Ecotricity, LIVE, AGF, and MVT will be discussed in Green Light for Venues.
Elsewhere, presenters will share solutions for audience travel and touring emissions, from product manufacturing to lifecycle analysis to slow touring; How to Achieve a 90% Recycling Rate will present insights from LIDO Festival and Radio 2 Big Weekend; Big Team and ClearText will present projects for accessibility and inclusion; the Centre for Festivals and Events (CEF) will look at how AI is transforming the live sector; and the unmissable Deep Dive into Toilets: The loos you choose needs no explanation.
The Quick-Fire Innovation Round, hosted by punk legend John Robb, presents Lightweight Design, Heavy Impact – reimagining event design with Airworks; the reinvented toilet from Cranfield University; Hydrogen power for events from GeoPura, and VESTROCK’s use of NaviLens technology to help visually impaired festivalgoers navigate their event.
Rounding off GEI18 will be the International AGF Awards, sponsored by Skydiamond, where AGF celebrates the most innovative and greenest events, venues, organisations, and individuals from across the globe over the last 12 months. Hosted by Claire O'Neill (A Greener Future & Grid Faeries), Madame Gandhi (Musician & Activist), and Ash Perrin (The Flying Seagull Project), delegates will raise a glass to the winners before enjoying a final drinks and networking party with devilishly good vegan balls courtesy of Devil’s Kitchen.
View the full schedule at www.agreenerfuture.com/schedule
GEI18 is sponsored by Ecotricity Business, TAIT, AEG & The O2.
About AGF
AGF is a not-for-profit company committed to helping the events sector towards sustainability worldwide. AGF provides certification, education & training, consultancy, sustainable event management, and facilitates the exchange and implementation of good ideas. They share best practice for greener events, and how to not only prevent damage but actually enhance the environment. AGF provides independent assessment and verification of sustainability claims through the AGF Certification for festivals, venues, events and suppliers, sustainability diagnosis and detailed carbon footprinting. More info: www.agreenerfuture.com
About ILMC
Attracting 1,700+ of the world’s top live music professionals from over 40 countries annually, the International Live Music Conference has been the foremost meeting place for live music professionals worldwide for nearly 40 years. In addition to its main conference, ILMC also produces Futures Forum, Touring Entertainment LIVE, and the International Festival Forum. More info: https://ilmc.com/
Contact
Nikki McNeill | Global Publicity
nikki@ globalpublicity.co.uk
UK Electronic Music Powers £2.47bn: Free Parties Boom, Mid-Tier Venues in Crisis and the North Leads 93% Growth, New Report Reveals
New national report finds audiences growing and regional scenes surging - even as economic pressure accelerates club closures and hollows out the UK’s nightlife infrastructure.
UK electronic music generated £2.47 billion in measurable economic activity in 2025, up 3% year-on-year, despite the loss of more than one in three nightclubs since 2020, according to a major new industry report released today.
The Fourth Electronic Music Report, produced by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) in partnership with Audience Strategies and Amazon Music, reveals a sector that remains globally dominant and culturally resilient, but increasingly fragile at home as economic pressure forces venue closures, contracts mid-tier capacity and pushes audiences into alternative and informal spaces.
Since March 2020, the UK has lost 36% of its nightclubs, leaving just 823 venues nationwide. Over the same period, electronic music event programming has grown by 10.5%, highlighting sustained audience demand even as the physical infrastructure that supports nightlife continues to shrink.
Global success masking domestic fragility
The UK continues to punch above its weight internationally. It ranks second in the world for electronic music artist development, with 13 artists in the global Top 100 DJs and 72 in the Top 500. British artists represent 11% of global electronic music creators, yet account for 15% of the world’s Top 500, underlining the UK’s outsized cultural influence.
Genres pioneered in the UK remain globally dominant, with 30.5% of drum and bass artists and 14.7% of dubstep producers worldwide originating here. Exports reached £86.8 million in 2025, an 8% increase year-on-year.
However, the report warns that this global success masks growing structural weaknesses in the domestic ecosystem — particularly the accelerating collapse of mid-tier venues.
Just 15% of UK venues now fall within the critical 500–2,500 capacity range, creating severe bottlenecks for emerging artists attempting to progress beyond grassroots level. Rising operational costs, high business rates, a 20% VAT rate on tickets, licensing pressures and weak planning protections have made this segment increasingly unviable.
Grassroots venues now operate on an average profit margin of just 0.48%, with operators earning approximately £26,000 per year while working 60-hour weeks. Artists face similarly fragile economics: 81% of producers earn less than 10% of their income from royalties, while 64% of nightclub performance royalties are misallocated due to data and attribution failures.
Free parties rise as audiences move beyond venues
The report finds that electronic music audiences are not declining — they are changing how, when and where they engage as venues close and affordability worsens.
- Free events now account for 15% of all electronic music programming, rising 34% year-on-year
- Daytime electronic music events have increased 82% since 2022
- Interest in sober events is up 92%, reflecting wider cultural shifts, with nearly 40% of Gen Z adults abstaining from alcohol
As licensed venues continue to disappear, electronic music activity is increasingly shifting into alternative and informal spaces — including cafés, which are emerging as new hubs for music and cultural programming. Activity in art galleries has risen by 83%, while record shops have seen a 53% increase, pointing to innovation driven by necessity rather than long-term sustainability.
The report cautions that the growth of free parties and unlicensed events reflects a displacement effect: audiences are not turning away from nightlife, but are being pushed out of traditional venues by rising costs, reduced capacity and shrinking availability. In this context, cafés and other hybrid spaces are filling the gap, expanding their role beyond hospitality to support local music and cultural life.
The North leads growth as London’s dominance declines
For the first time, a majority (51%) of UK electronic music events now take place outside London, marking a significant decentralisation of the sector.
Growth has been strongest in the North of England, where electronic music activity increased by 93% between 2022 and 2025. Newcastle recorded 72% year-on-year growth, far outpacing London and highlighting the emergence of new regional powerhouses.
The report identifies this regional expansion as a major opportunity for cultural and economic growth — but warns that without targeted investment in venues and infrastructure, the same pressures that hollowed out city-centre nightlife could be replicated across the regions.
International investment, UK inaction
The report contrasts the UK’s position with international examples of coordinated policy support:
- Amsterdam invests €2.2 million annually in its nightlife ecosystem
- Germany’s reclassification of clubs as cultural institutions unlocked tax relief and planning protections, helping Berlin generate £1.5 billion annually
- Sydney climbed global nightlife rankings in under four years following targeted reform
By comparison, the UK maintains a 20% VAT rate on cultural tickets - nearly three times the European average - alongside high business rates and limited planning protections, placing the sector at a growing competitive disadvantage.
Industry warning
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said:
“Electronic music remains one of the UK’s most powerful cultural and economic assets, but the domestic ecosystem that sustains it is now in crisis.
We are seeing free parties rise, mid-tier venues disappear and audiences pushed out of licensed spaces — not because demand is falling, but because the sector is being squeezed by sustained economic pressure.
At the same time, the North is leading growth and innovation, proving that opportunity exists if infrastructure is protected. This report shows extraordinary resilience, but resilience is not a policy. Without urgent reform — from VAT alignment and business rates relief to meaningful planning protections — we risk dismantling the very foundations that made the UK a global leader.”
Global Momentum Builds: NTIA and International Nightlife Association Back UK Call for Minister as Australian Leaders Urge Worldwide Action
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) and the International Nightlife Association (INA) have today thrown their full support behind calls from Angela Rayner, Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram for the appointment of a dedicated Minister for the Night-Time Economy, as Australian Ministers formally urge governments around the world to follow suit.
Rt.Hon Angela Rayner Said within here speech at the Night Time Economy Summit in Liverpool, “And that is why, I would support the creation of a dedicated Minister for the Night Time Economy, with responsibility to champion the sector inside Government, and ensure that those voices of small and medium businesses are heard loud and clear.”
The renewed push for ministerial leadership follows the landmark First Global Night-Time Economy Ministers’ Meeting, convened on 31 January by NSW Minister John Graham and ACT Minister Tara Cheyne.
At the meeting, the world’s first two Night-Time Economy Ministers issued a joint communiqué calling on jurisdictions globally to appoint dedicated Ministerial leadership to unlock the full potential of their night-time economies.
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA and Vice President of the International Nightlife Association, attended the inaugural meeting on 31 January, joining global experts and policymakers to discuss reform, international collaboration and the future of governance for night-time economies.
While more than 80 jurisdictions have introduced Night Mayors or similar governance roles, meaningful reform requires ministerial authority to coordinate across licensing, planning, transport, policing, health, treasury, tourism, industrial relations and the arts, alongside the legislative backing needed to secure long-term progress.
For decades, night-time economies have too often been treated as regulatory challenges rather than strategic economic drivers. That narrative is shifting. In October 2025, the World Economic Forum recognised the night-time economy as “an untapped frontier of opportunity” capable of driving economic growth, optimising infrastructure and strengthening social connection.
Sacha Lord, Chair of the Night Time Industries Association & INA Advisory Board, said:
“Australia has set a powerful international precedent. By establishing dedicated Night-Time Economy Ministers and issuing a global call to action, they have demonstrated what serious commitment looks like.
We fully support Angela Rayner, Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram in calling for a Minister for the Night-Time Economy here in the UK. Our sector is a major employer, a driver of tourism and the beating heart of our cities. It deserves representation at Cabinet level.”
Joaquim Boadas de Quintana, President of the International Nightlife Association, added:
“The inaugural engagement between Ministers John Graham and Tara Cheyne marks a historic turning point. The global sector is aligned, night-time economies require structured, Ministerial leadership to ensure coordination, legal certainty and long-term strategy.
Governments around the world should now respond to this call.”
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA and Vice President of the INA, said:
“Attending the first Global Night-Time Economy Ministers’ Meeting reinforced the scale of international momentum behind this agenda. Ministerial leadership is no longer optional, it is essential.
The call from Australian Ministers strengthens the case in the UK and beyond. Our cities do not switch off at sunset, and neither should government policy.”
With international alignment growing, the NTIA and INA reaffirm their commitment to working alongside national and regional leaders to ensure night-time economies are recognised as core economic and cultural infrastructure, and empowered to reach their full potential after dark.
Contact
Nikki McNeill | Global Publicity
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Rt.Hon. Angela Rayner, Burnham and Rotherham join Global Leaders, Cultural Icons and UNESCO Voices at Night Time Economy Summit in Liverpool
The NTIA are proud to welcome Rt.Hon Angela Rayner and Mayors of the North Andy Burnham, Steve Rotheram and Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the DCMS Select Committee, as headline speakers at their annual Night Time Economy Summit, with Spotlight interviews from Todd Terry & Peter Hook, Keynotes from Philip Kolvin KC & Joaquim Boadas de Quintana President of the International Nightlife Association and global city leaders shaping the future of nightlife.
Liverpool has become the epicentre of global debate on culture, sustainability, cities and the night-time economy as senior political leaders, international city representatives, cultural pioneers, legal experts and technology innovators converge for a landmark summit of unprecedented scale.
The summit is headlined by a keynote address and live Q&A with the Rt Hon Angela Rayner MP, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State. Her appearance anchors the programme, placing nightlife, culture and the creative industries firmly within the national political and economic conversation.
Angela Rayner’s keynote will address the current political and economic landscape, the pressures facing communities and local government, and the vital role culture, nightlife and the night-time economy play in jobs, growth, identity and regional renewal. In a wide-ranging Q&A, she explores devolution, transport, public safety, workforce challenges and how governments can better support cities and regions after dark.
She is joined by Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, and Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, alongside Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the DCMS Select Committee, and parliamentarians Dr Rupa Huq MP, Chris Webb MP, Clive Lewis MP and Paul Kohler MP, forming one of the most politically influential gatherings the sector has seen.
A further keynote is delivered by Philip Kolvin KC, one of the UK’s leading licensing barristers and the author of Darkest Before the Dawn: A Manifesto for the Night Time Economy, written for the Night Time Industries Association. Drawing on this landmark work, Kolvin sets out a bold and strategic vision for the future of the UK’s night-time economy, highlighting the key opportunities and drivers for positive change across policy, planning and practice. His address emphasises the urgent need for an unprecedented partnership between government, local authorities, industry and communities, rooted in a shared commitment to protecting and growing one of the UK’s greatest and most valuable assets, nightlife.
Culture, Music and Global Club Voices at the Forefront
At the heart of the cultural programme is a spotlight keynote interview with Todd Terry, the pioneering DJ and producer whose influence helped shape modern house music and global club culture. In a rare in-depth conversation, Terry reflects on the rise of underground scenes, the cultural power of nightlife and how club culture has driven social connection, creativity and economic impact across cities from New York to the UK and beyond.
He is joined by leading voices from electronic music and nightlife culture, including Peter Hook of Joy Division, New Order and Peter Hook & The Light, offering rare insights into the Haçienda era and the role nightlife played in transforming Manchester into a global cultural force.
Also speaking are Sam Divine, DJ & Producer 555/Defected, and Yousef, DJ, producer and founder of Circus Recordings, bringing first-hand insight into the evolution of club culture, grassroots venues, artist livelihoods and the realities facing the electronic music ecosystem today.
Additional cultural contributions come from Lisa Maffia, Jumpin Jack Frost and Liverpool favourites Red Rum Club discussing the importance of grass roots live music, underlining the breadth and influence of the creative programme.
Global Leadership, Data and the Future of Nightlife
International leadership is led by Joaquim Boadas de Quintana, President of the International Nightlife Association, with senior representatives from Mexico, Vienna, Singapore, Australia, France, Greece, Italy, Germany, Sweden, the United States, Colombia, Argentina, Ireland, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates, among many others. In total, the summit welcomes over 250 speakers from more than 40 countries and 2,000+ delegates, positioning Liverpool as a global capital for nightlife and cultural policy.
As the sector reflects on the year, the summit also launches two major publications:
- The latest Annual Report on the UK Electronic Music Scene, mapping economic contribution, employment, exports, venue sustainability and artist livelihoods
- The Annual Night Time Economy (NTE) Report, benchmarking opportunities and challenges facing nightlife as the UK rounds up 2025
Together, the reports underline both the resilience and fragility of the sector, strengthening calls for coordinated action between government, cities and industry.
Innovation, Comedy and UNESCO-Supported Culture
Technology and innovation are spotlighted through an AlphaTheta showcase, unveiling the new RMX-IGNITE, highlighting the evolving relationship between music technology, creativity and live performance.
The summit also features UNESCO-debate session on the global impact of Grime and UK Hip Hop, featuring the originator and Godfather of Grime Wiley who will debate alongside Dr Charisse Beaumont, CEO Black Lives in Music, and celebrations of 30 years of Hospital Records, marking three decades of independent British music innovation.
A further milestone is the launch of Live Comedy Day, delivered in partnership with the Live Comedy Association, hosted at the home of Hot Water Comedy Club in Liverpool, spotlighting comedy’s cultural and economic importance.
Members of the London Night Time Economy Taskforce share recommendations and lessons learned on safety, licensing, inclusion and partnership working, offering transferable insights for cities nationwide.
Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram both emphasise the importance of devolved leadership, culture-led regeneration and protecting grassroots venues, highlighting how cities and regions are increasingly shaping national growth and global reputation.
“This summit shows the full power of the night-time economy, politically, culturally, legally and economically,” said Michael Kill CEO NTIA. “With Angela Rayner headlining and voices from global cities, UNESCO, culture, law and technology all at the table, this is a defining moment for nightlife as we look beyond 2025.”
As discussions continue across Liverpool, one message is unmistakable: the future of the UK , and its cities, will be shaped not only in Parliament, but through culture, creativity and life after dark.
Contact:
For more info contact Nikki McNeill at Global Publicity
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
BAD – Buenos Aires Dance lands in Buenos Aires
February 11-16, 2026 at Usina del Arte in Buenos Aires
www.isbad4you.com
Buenos Aires becomes the cultural hub of electronic music, hosting Latin America’s first comprehensive electronic music event where music, technology, and the future converge in the city.
Buenos Aires Dance (BAD) was born with a bold mission: to inspire, educate and help shape the future of electronic music in Latin America, creating a space for exchange, learning and cultural expression.
From 11th to 13th February, at the iconic The Usina del Arte building, BAD will bring together the electronic music community from the region and beyond, with exclusive events, educational program, networking opportunities and pop-ups plus performances by world-renowned DJs and local stars including Richie Hawtin, Indira Pagnotto, Kevin de Vries and Carlita.
Transforming the city into a living stage for an entire week, BAD creates a complete week of industry immersion, uniting DJs, producers, promoters, managers, labels, bookers, and educators from across the globe. Buenos Aires becomes the cultural hub for electronic music as music, technology, and the future converge in the city just days before the start of ULTRA Buenos Aires on 14th and 15th February at Parque de la Ciudad.
“Buenos Aires has established itself as one of the world’s most important cities for electronic music. With BAD, our goal is to build community, boost careers, professionalise the industry, and position the region on a global scale,” the Buenos Aires Dance organisers stated.
Among the confirmed speakers are Richie Hawtin, an undisputed legend of electronic music and one of the most influential figures in global techno, whose deep and lasting connection with Argentina has made him an iconic figure in the country’s electronic music culture over the past decades, shaping generations of artists and audiences alike; and Indira Paganotto, a leading global psytrance artist, who will share their vision on the present and future of electronic music.
Alongside these icons, international talents such as Carlita, Fran Bortolossi, Kevin de Vries, Kolombo,and Miguel Bastida as well as key figures from the local scene including Jay De Lys, Juan Hansen, Emiliano Demarco, Mariano Mellino, will strengthen the connection between the global scene and the Latin American community. In addition, Victoria Engel, Inda Jani, La Cintia, Lolu Menayed, and Malena Narvay will take part in a special “Women in Music” talk, aligned with the global movement toward gender equity in the industry. Representatives from Ableton, Billboard, Sony Music Entertainment, Spotify, Ultra Records and William Morris Entertainment will also take part in talks and workshops at BAD.
The Usina del Arte provides the perfect setting for an event that connects past, present, and future. The iconic, century-old building known as the “Palace of Light” was originally a historic power plant and today it embodies Buenos Aires’ cultural transformation: from generating electrical power to igniting the creative energy of a new generation.
A Comprehensive Program: More Than an Event - A Platform for Transformation
BAD’s program will bring together three strategic pillars:
1. Talks and workshops with leading local and international figures.
2. Exclusive experiences: pop-ups and activations at key locations across Buenos Aires, premieres, and special benefits at the city’s most important clubs.
3. Global networking: curated spaces designed to foster meaningful connections among industry professionals.
BAD programme schedule:
February 11: BAD – Buenos Aires Dance kicks off - Opening event at Avant Garden.
February 12 & 13: Conferences and workshops at Usina del Arte + pop-ups across different locations in the city
February 14 & 15: ULTRA Buenos Aires at Parque de la Ciudad
For more information, tickets and registration: www.isbad4you.com
YOUROPE releases Weather Toolbox
Heat waves, heavy rain and high winds – extreme weather phenomena are increasingly threatening the livelihood and safety of outdoor events. To give festivals the means to prepare for such incidents, YOUROPE and YES Group have developed the Weather Preparedness & Resilience Toolbox.
Across Europe, storms, heatwaves and enduring rain disrupted a lot of outdoor events during the past years, festivals being no exception. Weather is no longer a background risk; rather, it is now shaping the core of festival planning. The climate is changing, and festivals must change with it. Storms develop faster, gust fronts are stronger, heatwaves are longer, rainfall is more intense and even wildfires are now a feasible threat. Microclimates on festival sites – created by trees, valleys, asphalt or temporary structures – make predictions even harder.
This also leads to pressure from authorities and insurers and rising expectations from the public which must be addressed.
As part of its Future-Fit Festivals (3F) project, the European festival association YOUROPE has developed the 3F Weather Preparedness & Resilience Toolbox, a comprehensive collection and sharing of knowledge, tools and good-practice examples intended to help festivals prepare for, manage, and respond to weather impacts.
What the Toolbox offers
The Weather Toolbox is a modular, expandable knowledge platform. It contains templates, checklists and decision matrices, case studies and good practices, delivered by practitioners and weather experts. On top of a lot of tools aiming at production and planning, it includes learning tools, emergency scenarios to practice, and also material to hand out to the audience.
Topics covered
- Weather Hazard Awareness
- Risk Assessment & Planning
- Monitoring & Early Warning
- Decision-Making & Communication
- On-Site Implementation
- Training & Learning
- Educating the Audience
- Case Studies & Lessons Learned
- Research & Resources
The 3F Weather Preparedness & Resilience Toolbox was developed and curated by the YOUROPE Event Safety (YES) Group, a network of leading safety professionals from across Europe.
Many of the tools, templates and examples included in this collection come directly from festivals within the YOUROPE network. Others were contributed by practitioners from the wider community, who shared documents, lessons learned, and good-practice approaches developed over years of working in the field.
The result is a toolbox built by the sector for the sector, combining academic insight, operational experience, and the lived reality of festivals facing increasingly unpredictable weather.
Holger Jan Schmidt, YOUROPE General Secretary said: “Climate change is real, and it is not going away. That is a fact – and it is the reality festivals must deal with today. In our pan-European festival promoter surveys, we see weather emerging as an increasingly significant challenge year after year. Regular feedback from the safety community within our YOUROPE Event Safety Group (YES Group) also confirms that weather is the decisive factor in this field.
“Festivals and other outdoor events must prepare for more frequent and more extreme conditions. For this reason, the relevance of what the YES Group has developed with the 'Weather Preparedness & Resilience Toolbox' can hardly be overstated. It is an unprecedented resource, addressing all types of weather – from drought and heavy rainfall to storms – and supporting event organisers in preparing themselves and everyone involved in their events to operate safely and responsibly.”
Check out Toolbox (PDF & online version):
https://yourope.org/weather-toolbox
Download Toolbox PDF:
https://yourope.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/weather-prepardness-resilience-toolbox-yourope.pdf
About YOUROPE
Since 1998, YOUROPE – The European Festival Association has evolved into the most important association for popular music festivals in Europe. As of January 2026, YOUROPE counts 136 festivals and associated organizations from 31 European countries among its members. The overall aim of the association is to strengthen and improve the European festival scene as a whole and promoting arts and music while connecting different cultures.
In its working groups, YOUROPE focuses on different topics at the heart of festivals: sustainability, climate action and environmental protection in the GO Group (Green Operations Europe), security and crowded spaces management in the YOUROPE Event Safety (YES) Group, and mental health & DEI in the WIRE (Wellbeing, Inclusion, Responsibility, Equity) Group.
Further, YOUROPE hosts the biannual European Festival Conference (EFC), publishes the European Festival Report (EFR) after every season and organises the annual European Festival Awards (EFAs).
About YES Group
The YOUROPE Event Safety (YES) Group is working as a think-tank in the field of Event Safety, Security and Crowded Spaces management, influencing and promoting best practices in this field across Europe. It is led and managed by a team of high-profile experts in event safety and crowd management, representing some of the most respected venues and festivals in Europe.
The Group has organised numerous meetings and seminars between Event Safety managers and experts for the past 20 years, to enhance learning and encourage the exchange of experiences in the field.
Finalists Revealed for the 2026 International AGF Awards
A Greener Future (AGF) reveals the finalists – events, venues, and innovators from 14 countries - for the International AGF Awards 2026.
The awards are presented across ten vital sustainability categories – including power, water, food, and travel - with the top accolades of International Greener Festival Award and International Greener Arena Award 2026. The awards celebrate the most innovative and greenest events, venues, and organisations from across the globe over the last 12 months. The ceremony, hosted by artist Madame Gandhi, Ash Perrin (Flying Seagulls Project), and AGF’s CEO Claire O’Neill, will take place on 24th February as the closing event of the Green Events & Innovations Conference, which takes place at the Royal Lancaster London.
“We’re super impressed by the groundbreaking and tireless work that the events community has delivered over the last 12 months. Considering the current global state of affairs, making space for creative and caring communities striving for a better, greener future has never been more welcome and necessary. Congrats to all of this year's participants.” Claire O’Neill, CEO of AGF
The International AGF Awards are sponsored by Skydiamond.
And the finalists are:
INTERNATIONAL GREENER FESTIVAL AWARD
Supported by Earth Positive
Boom Festival (PT)
DGTL (NL)
Øyafestivalen (NO)
Paradise City (BE)
INTERNATIONAL GREENER ARENA AWARD
Supported by Universal Pixels
ABBA Voyage (UK)
Ancienne Belgique (BE)
AO Arena (UK)
AsiaWorld-Expo (HK)
Co-op Live (UK)
M&S Bank Arena (UK)
P&J Live (UK)
GREENER TRANSPORT AWARD
Supported by KB Event
DGTL (NL)
Godiva Festival (UK)
Montreux Jazz Festival (CH)
Øyafestivalen (NO)
Paradise City (BE)
CIRCULAR EVENT AWARD (for reduced waste & resourcefulness)
DGTL (NL)
Echoes of Earth (IN)
Estonian Fashion Festival (EE)
Festival Cordillera (CO)
LIDO Festival (UK)
COMMUNITY ACTION AWARD
Echoes of Earth (IN)
Green Man (UK)
Sonidos Líquidos (ES)
Ultra Festival (US)
We Out Here (UK)
GREENER CATERING AWARD
Supported by Peppermint Bars & Events
Copenhagen Film Festival Forum (DK)
DGTL (NL)
Echoes of Earth (IN)
Øyafestivalen (NO)
Paradise City (BE)
PIED PIPER AWARD (for greener communication)
Boom Festival (PT)
Cridem pel Clima (ES)
Øyafestivalen (NO)
Phe Festival (ES)
Sonidos Líquidos (ES)
GREENER POWER AWARD
Supported by GeoPura
DGTL (NL)
LIDO Festival (UK)
Montreux Jazz Festival (CH)
Øyafestivalen (NO)
Paradise City (BE)
WATER AND SANITATION AWARD
Boom Festival (PT)
DGTL (NL)
Green Man (UK)
Øyafestivalen (NO)
Paradise City (BE)
GREENER INNOVATIONS AWARD
Supported by L-Acoustics
GeoPura Hydrogen-powered Main Stage @ American Express presents BST Hyde Park (UK)
Leave No Tent @ Sziget (HU)
NaviLens @ Vestrock (NL)
The Walking Route @ Co-op Live (UK)
100% eHGV European Tour @ Sam Fender (UK)
Homemade Airing Cupboard @ Ancienne Belgique (BE)
Last year, one of the top accolades, the International Greener Festival Award 2025, was presented to Norway's Øyafestivalen, who also scooped the Greener Transport Award, with other winning festivals and venues from India, UK, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Hungary. Find out the winners of 2026 at the International AGF Awards during GEI18
Sponsored by Skydiamond, the International AGF Awards is an accessible event that takes place during GEI, organised by AGF in partnership with ILMC (International Live Music Conference). A limited number of tickets are still available here.
Contact
Nikki McNeill | Global Publicity
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk