Art and the Limitations of ‘Net Zero’ Thinking

The pursuit of 'net zero' can sometimes lead to an oversimplified view of carbon emissions, implying that the ideal state for humans is one of non-existence. As carbon beings, we emit carbon with every breath we take. The act of being alive and engaging in the world is a carbon-emitting process, so logically, reaching "net zero" could suggest the cessation of all human activity—an impossible and undesirable goal.

Many artists who are deeply concerned about the climate crisis feel trapped by this concept. They worry that even creating art—something often seen as a life-enriching and essential activity—might contribute to the problem. As a result, some assume that the best thing they can do for the planet is to stop creating altogether, to 'do nothing.' However, this mindset misses the potential that art and creativity have in reshaping how we interact with the planet.

Human desires—the need for pleasure, the alleviation of pain, and adherence to cultural expectations—often drive the very systems that lead to extractivism, materialism, and ultimately, the climate crisis. These desires, combined with a consumption-driven culture, contribute to the overuse of resources and the destruction of ecosystems. But this doesn't mean that the solution is to stop engaging with the world entirely.

A Creative Alternative

Instead of filling our time with high-carbon activities that meet fleeting desires or reinforce materialism, we could fill it with creative processes that enrich our lives in deeper ways. Engaging in the arts not only satisfies our innate need for expression but also offers a pathway to reconnect with each other, the environment, and the materials we use.

Participating in creative activities—whether it's painting, writing, dancing, or making music—can satisfy many of the same emotional and psychological needs that drive consumerism, but without the heavy carbon footprint. When we engage in creative processes, we develop a greater appreciation for the preciousness of the materials we use, whether it’s the paint on a canvas or the clay in our hands. This mindful approach helps us reconnect with the Earth and with each other, fostering a sense of community and collaboration rather than competition and consumption.

Art also helps us slow down, reflect, and find meaning beyond the immediate gratification that extractive and consumerist activities provide. By focusing on creating, we can shift our energies away from activities that contribute to the climate crisis and toward actions that nourish both the planet and our souls.

In this way, creativity becomes not just an outlet, but a solution—a means of living more sustainably while meeting our deeper human needs. Rather than striving for an impossible 'net zero' existence, we can focus on living in balance, using creativity as a way to meet our desires in ways that honour the planet.

Arts and Their Low-Carbon Origins

The arts have historically been a low-carbon activity and they remain an essential part of sustainable living.

Before the advent of industrialization, many art forms developed in low-carbon, resource-efficient ways. From cave paintings made with natural pigments to music produced with handmade instruments, the arts were deeply embedded in everyday life and closely tied to the natural environment. These art forms were created using local materials, relying on the human body, and often powered only by collective human energy.

For instance, dance and theatre, both highly collaborative and expressive art forms, required only physical space, people, and natural light. Poetry and storytelling—integral parts of many early cultures—needed only the voice and the audience's imagination. Visual arts like painting and sculpture evolved using materials such as clay, stone, wood, and natural dyes, none of which involved industrial processes.

Arts and Shared Experiences: A Path to Carbon Saving

One of the key advantages of the arts is that they bring people together for shared experiences. Whether it’s gathering in a theatre, a community hall, or even outdoors for a public performance or exhibition, the collective nature of art offers an opportunity to save energy by sharing resources.

When people come together for these events, energy consumption can be reduced through shared heating, lighting, and cooking. For example, in a gallery or concert space, many people enjoy art together in a single heated or lit space, reducing the individual use of energy in separate homes. This principle can be seen in community arts festivals, which create temporary, shared environments where resources are pooled.

However, travel remains an issue. Attendees often need to drive or use other forms of transportation to reach these shared experiences, which can negate some of the carbon savings. Solutions to this might include emphasizing local arts events, encouraging public transportation or cycling, and promoting digital experiences where feasible.

The Arts as Cultural Foundations and Catalysts for Change

Art has always played a pivotal role in shaping and nourishing human cultures. It serves as both a mirror and a guide—reflecting societal values, beliefs, and emotions while providing pathways for adaptation and change. When people engage with the arts, they tap into a long-standing tradition of using creativity to make sense of the world around them.

In times of uncertainty, art becomes a critical tool for processing and adapting to change. The creativity that goes into making art can also help us respond to personal and societal shifts, as it teaches problem-solving, resilience, and innovation. Whether it’s through visual art, music, or performance, artistic practices engage our senses and emotions, fostering deeper connections to ourselves and others.

In essence, creativity and the arts are not just expressions of beauty—they are fundamental survival skills that help us cope with the unknown, build empathy, and encourage collaboration, all of which are crucial for navigating the challenges of modern life.

The arts, at their core, are low-carbon activities that connect us to our pre-industrial roots. They bring people together, encourage shared resource use, and offer a sustainable way to build community. By fostering creativity, they also equip us to handle change and find meaning in the unknown. While travel for shared experiences poses a challenge, the overall benefits of practicing and supporting the arts make them an essential part of a sustainable and culturally rich future.