Environmental Leader

Montreal-based Cirque du Soleil’s executive committee recently adopted an environmental policy, Sustainable Industries reports.

With energy consumption accounting for nearly 70 percent of of Cirque du Soleil’s greenhouse gas emissions, the company implemented new lighting control measures at its headquarters. In the past year, it also installed a rainwater collection system, began using biodegradable cleaning products, and started using Forest Stewardship Council–certified recycled paper. The company also subsidizes employees’ public transportation passes.

What’s proved more difficult is taking its sustainability practices on the road. Cirque du Soleil presented 15 shows around the world in 2007, including six touring shows, eight resident shows and one arena show. The company has set up recycling systems and switched to more energy-efficient lighting at some venues, but stage owners need to be convinced. The company is taking a “change one location at a time” approach.

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