RCM's Road to Decarbonisation

The Royal College of Music (RCM) is committed to becoming the UK’s most sustainable conservatoire, incorporating environmental and social practices into every aspect of its operations.

The College's sustainability strategy is built on five key themes:

• supporting music, culture, and diversity;
• promoting sustainable operations;
• fostering sustainable partners and suppliers;
• prioritizing health and wellbeing; and
• ensuring robust governance and transparency.

These guiding principles the College them foster talent, ensure equitable access, and integrate sustainability into their mission.

A testament to their commitment is the significant progress they have made in reducing their environmental impact so far:

As of 2022/23, they have already reduced carbon emissions by 77% from their 2004/05 baseline.

This has been achieved by adopting a zero-carbon electricity tariff, upgrading to LED and sensor-activated lighting, and exploring innovative solutions like air source heat pumps and voltage optimization.

The RCM's ongoing efforts are guided by their Carbon Management Plan (CMP), which sets clear targets for achieving carbon net zero by 2035, reducing Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 73% by 2026/27 from a 2004/05 baseline, and cutting Scope 3 emissions by 40% from a 2019/20 baseline.

By taking responsibility for their environmental and social impacts, the RCM is creating a resilient and supportive environment, not just for the present, but for future generations of musicians and staff.