A moment of deep connection with nature

Alessandro - metal music fan

"A moment of deep connection with nature" is sometimes enough to awaken the ecological conscience. This has inspired Alessandro, a metal music enthusiast, to become more committed in protecting our planet. In this interview, we explore his perspective on metal music and sustainability around different European countries.

As an Italian metalhead that lived in Spain, and now lives in Romania, how does the atmosphere at Romanian metal festivals compare to those in Italy, Spain or other countries you’ve attended concerts or festivals?

In my opinion, Italy is not really a country known for hosting prominent metal festivals. In recent years, the situation has been changing, but back when I lived in Italy, apart from the Gods of Metal, there weren't any noteworthy metal festivals. In Spain, I didn't attend many metal festivals except for Rockfest, which seemed well-organized with significant bands. In Romania, I’ve been to Rockstadt and Celtic Transylvania, both of which are well-organized metal festivals with a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere.

Have you noticed any efforts to promote sustainability or eco-conscious practices at festivals or concert venues? What do you think about these initiatives?

The metal festivals where I’ve noticed the most eco-friendly initiatives are Wacken, Midgardsblot (Norway), and Meh Suff! (Switzerland). One of the first things that comes to mind, and the most obvious one you deal with directly, is that all three implemented a reusable cup deposit policy. This motivates people to return their cups instead of throwing them away after a single use. Plus, if the cup is nice (like the ones at Wacken, for example), it can even become a keepsake. From what I know, Wacken puts a lot of effort into reducing its environmental impact and has implemented some interesting renewable energy initiatives.

Do you think the metal community has a unique role in raising awareness about issues like environmental sustainability or cultural preservation? If so, how can this role be amplified?

The metal community certainly has an important role in drawing attention to these issues. Festivals, metal or otherwise, have a significant impact on the ecosystem. Just think about the amount of waste produced, flights to bring together bands and fans, and the fossil fuels burned to power the entire festival and camping areas. I think organizing a festival with the help of renewable energy and promoting it as such, alongside already implemented practices like waste reduction and sustainable transportation, can encourage people to reflect on these topics.

How do you personally contribute to sustainability during festivals, such as reducing waste or supporting eco-conscious vendors? Do you feel these efforts can make a difference?

What can I say... I obviously never litter and always try to find the nearest bin :) If the festival provides reusable drink containers, I make an effort to use them as much as possible. I travel by camper, and fortunately, most festivals are held during warm seasons, so I avoid using the heating. I also like to go shopping to local grocery stores when I’m at metal festivals, so I support the local economy and consume the food in the campervan, so I don’t produce waste in the festival arena.

Is there a specific moment, song, or experience in metal music that has deepened your awareness of nature or the environment? How has it shaped your perspective?

When I saw Moonsorrow live at the summer edition of Meh Suff!, I had a moment of deep connection with nature. Moonsorrow, known for their pagan-themed lyrics, combined with the atmosphere of Meh Suff!—a festival held (or was held?) in a remote forest on a hilltop in the middle of nowhere, far from the chaos and the city of Zurich—created a mystical vibe that made me feel very close to Mother Nature. I had a similar feeling with Vermilia at Celtic Transylvania. Now that I think of it, both bands are Finnish... maybe that’s not a coincidence? :D

Knowing you will continue to participate in festivals and the metal community, what changes or trends would you like to see in the scene regarding sustainability?

I hope to see more and more efforts to promote eco-sustainability policies. Many festivals are already making progress, and I hope they continue to do even more.

As someone living in Romania, how do you see the local festival scene evolving, and do you think there’s potential for stronger integration of sustainability practices here?

Romania already has some pretty important metal festivals that attract people from all over the world, and I believe it’s crucial for them to make eco-sustainable choices. Romania is known for its stunning landscapes and raw nature, so it’s essential to promote and preserve this aspect.

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and experiences. Your perspective adds to this project, and I appreciate your openness and passion. Metal Roots wouldn’t be the same without voices like yours. Thank you for being part of this journey!

Thank you for considering my opinion on such a sensitive and important topic. I wish you good luck with your project, and I hope it will bring awareness and inspire positive change within the metal community.