In a groundbreaking fusion of music and environmental consciousness, house music producer and entrepreneur BLOND:ISH is set to release her upcoming album, Never Walk Alone, on vinyl crafted from recycled cooking oil. This innovative approach not only showcases her commitment to sustainability but also addresses the significant environmental impact traditionally associated with vinyl record production.
Pioneering Sustainable Music Production
BLOND:ISH, known offstage as Vivie-ann Bakos, has been a steadfast advocate for eco-friendly practices within the music industry. In 2020, she launched the nonprofit organization Bye Bye Plastic, aiming to eliminate single-use plastics from the music scene. Her latest endeavor takes this mission a step further by tackling the ecological footprint of vinyl records.
Traditional vinyl records are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a plastic derived from petrochemicals. The production process of PVC is energy-intensive and releases harmful greenhouse gases. Researchers at Keele University estimate that a standard vinyl record contains approximately 135 grams of PVC, contributing about 0.5 kilograms of CO₂ emissions per unit.
To counteract this, BLOND:ISH has partnered with BioVinyl, a sustainable pressing plant that utilizes bio-attributed PVC made from biogenic waste, including recycled cooking oils. This innovative material is 99.98% petroleum-free and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 90% compared to conventional vinyl production methods.
Engaging the Community
Beyond the eco-friendly composition of the vinyl, BLOND:ISH is fostering a sense of community through the album’s packaging. The limited edition LP will feature a mosaic of photographs submitted by fans alongside their loved ones and best friends. Submissions are being welcomed via her Instagram platform, encouraging fans to become an integral part of this sustainable music project.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Innovation
Embarking on this sustainable venture was not without its challenges. BLOND:ISH faced skepticism and criticism when she first introduced the Bye Bye Plastic foundation. However, these obstacles fueled her determination to explore innovative solutions within the music industry. She recalls, “Those haters gave me an idea and a dream, to make a plastic-free vinyl—I’m like, ‘What if we can actually produce a vinyl that fits into the circular loop of nature!'” After extensive research, she discovered a method to produce vinyl records that align with the principles of a circular economy.
A Broader Movement Towards Sustainable Vinyl
BLOND:ISH’s initiative is part of a growing movement within the music industry to address the environmental impact of vinyl records. The resurgence of vinyl has raised concerns due to the material’s reliance on oil-based plastics and the associated carbon footprint. Innovations such as bioplastic-based records and the use of recycled materials are being explored to mitigate these environmental concerns.
By choosing to press Never Walk Alone on eco-friendly vinyl, BLOND:ISH is not only reducing the environmental impact of her music production but also setting a precedent for artists worldwide. Her commitment to sustainability exemplifies how the music industry can adapt and innovate to meet the pressing environmental challenges of our time.