Ecological sustainability in arts organisations—on the potentially limited impact of carbon footprint reports in ecological transformation

This paper examines the role of carbon footprint reports in fostering ecological transformation within the European cultural sector, situating the discussion within the frameworks of Sociological Neo-Institutionalism and Cultural Institution Studies. The study investigates how cultural organisations can pursue climate neutrality whilst navigating systemic and operational challenges. The pilot project on carbon footprinting by the German Federal Cultural Foundation serves as the primary case study, examining the potential of such reports as instruments for sustainability strategies. The findings indicate that direct emission reductions are often constrained by the systemic limitations of arts organisations, with critical leverage points located at national and international levels. The paper identifies emerging trends of institutional isomorphism, where carbon footprint reports are at risk of becoming coercive mandates instead of voluntary sustainability practices. Ultimately, although carbon footprint reports are essential for initiating sustainability efforts, realising genuine ecological transformation necessitates wider systemic and political engagement beyond standardised methodologies. This paper provides insights into the complexities involved in aligning the missions of arts organisations with ecological objectives, advocating for nuanced approaches that acknowledge the sector’s distinct cultural and social role.