Music and the Environment: How Listening Habits Shape Our Planet written for The Walleye
By Ashley Priem, Co Executive Director, EcoSuperior
Music is often described as universal, a force that connects people across cultures and generations. But beyond the emotional and cultural value it holds, music also carries an environmental footprint that has shifted dramatically with changes in technology. From streaming platforms to vinyl records, the way we choose to listen to music influences energy use, carbon emissions, and waste. By examining the impacts of digital streaming and the resurgence of vinyl, particularly the choice to buy second hand, we can better understand how to enjoy music more sustainably.
Streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube have revolutionized music consumption. With millions of songs available instantly, streaming feels like an immaterial act as no physical product changes hands, and nothing new is manufactured. However, the environmental cost lies in the invisible infrastructure that powers these platforms.
Every song streamed requires data to be stored and transmitted through energy-hungry data centers. A 2019 study from researchers at the University of Glasgow and the University of Oslo estimated that the energy demands of streaming now generate more greenhouse gas emissions than at the peak of the CD era. The constant demand for high-quality audio and video streams amplifies this effect.
In contrast, downloading music, while still digital, requires less ongoing energy. Once a song or album is stored on a personal device, it no longer relies on continuous data transmission. For heavy listeners who replay favorite albums or playlists often, downloading can significantly reduce repeated energy use compared to streaming.
At the other end of the spectrum is vinyl, which has enjoyed a surprising revival in the 21st century. Vinyl records are cherished for their warm sound quality and tactile, collectible nature. Yet, their production is resource intensive. Records are made from PVC, a plastic derived from petroleum, and manufacturing involves chemical processes that can release harmful emissions. New vinyl records also require packaging, distribution, and shipping, all of which add to their carbon footprint.
Despite these drawbacks, vinyl's impact varies depending on how it is consumed. Unlike streaming, a single vinyl record can be played countless times without additional energy costs beyond powering a turntable. If purchased second hand, vinyl becomes a far more sustainable option. Buying used records extends the lifespan of products that already exist, reducing demand for new production and keeping materials out of landfills. Record stores, thrift shops, and online marketplaces all support this circular economy, allowing listeners to enjoy music with a smaller environmental impact.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for reducing music's environmental footprint, but awareness can guide better choices. For listeners who rely heavily on streaming, downloading favorites for offline playback can reduce repeated energy use. Those drawn to vinyl can prioritize used records over new purchases. Supporting local record stores also cuts down on shipping emissions compared to online orders from distant warehouses.
Ultimately, the goal is balance. Music enriches lives, but our habits around it matter. Whether streaming, downloading, or crate-digging for second hand vinyl, being mindful of how you access and enjoy songs, can harmonize your love of music with a healthy future for people and the planet.
