As one of the central key issues of our time, sustainability is also of great concern to us. Even though it is a continuous process and there is no quick, simple path to sustainability – we are aware of our responsibility and are already working to adjust the levers in the right direction. Our main focus is on the candles used at the Leipzig Festival of Lights and, with regard to energy-saving requirements, the event technology. We are also keeping an eye on mobility, communication and accessibility.
Sustainability
at the Leipzig Festival of Lights
Candles and waste reduction
At the Leipzig Festival of Lights 2024, only reusable cups were used for the candles for the first time. These are made of 100% recyclable, durable plastic and come from the company Relocal based in Chemnitz.
The Leipzig Festival of Lights also refrains from using conventional tealights made with paraffin wax and instead uses tealights based on rapeseed wax with a candle casing made from recycled plastic. In addition, existing stocks of tealights are being used up in order to conserve resources. Reusable materials were also available on the 9ᵗʰ of October for the candle stands and for supplying the helpers on site (candle stands with information pointing to digitally available content, thermos flasks and drinking cups). A cooperation with Stadtreinigung Leipzig ensured clear waste separation. Furthermore, an assessment of the waste reduction achieved takes place every year. All helpers on site are briefed in order to provide visitors with correct information.
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made from durable plastic
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100 per cent recyclable
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regionally produced by the Chemnitz-based company Relocal
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20,000 reusable cups that completely replace single-use cups
Technology and energy
Already in the tender documents for the artists who wish to take part in the Leipzig Festival of Lights, sustainability is named as an important criterion. Cooperation is to be generated primarily at a local level, and arrangements in advance of the Leipzig Festival of Lights take place digitally whenever possible in order to avoid business travel. If such travel is necessary, LTM provides compensation accordingly. There is a deliberate selection of and cooperation with local service providers for technology, infrastructure and procurement. Reusable equipment is preferred and rented locally. For new constructions, recycled or environmentally friendly materials are preferred, and reusable solutions are sought with local associations or initiatives (upcycling) for further local use after the event. The use of energy-efficient (LED technology) and environmentally friendly devices is a matter of course. Energy consumption on the 9ᵗʰ of October is recorded. Since 2021, the CO2 footprint of the event has been calculated. To reduce the CO2 emissions produced, regional climate protection projects have been supported through donations since 2022.
Mobility, communication and accessibility
Environmentally friendly mobility is preferred: Transport for the artists and staff should preferably be on foot, by public transport, train or electric car. If air travel cannot be avoided, CO₂ compensation will be provided.
On the 9ᵗʰ of October, the Leipzig Festival of Lights team will be travelling through the city centre on foot or by bicycle or cargo bike (including e-bikes). Visitors are advised to use public transport, bicycles or e-scooters for their journey.
To share information about the Leipzig Festival of Lights, we primarily use digital communication channels. However, this does not allow us to reach everyone. Therefore, doing completely without paper is (still) not possible. Print runs are limited to what is necessary, and posters are available in digital form. For printed materials, we use certified paper.
In line with the sustainability goals defined by the UN, we already take care to ensure gender balance when selecting artists, to use sensitive gender-inclusive language in our communication, and to provide accessibility at the event location, for example through sign language interpretation, audioguides and barrier-free access to all light installations.