For the last few years, ESNS has added Solidarity Sustainability Tax (formerly known as Solidarity Eco Tax) to the ticket price of Delegate Passes. Every euro raised has been set aside and used for sustainable programmes, projects, and direct impact reduction.

One of ESNS's key initiatives funded through the Solidarity Sustainability Tax is the Green Tour Support programme. It invites ESNS acts to share their concrete plans for sustainable transport and covers the cost difference between regular travel and greener options. Initially focused on summer tours and festival travel, the programme has now become an integral part of ESNS itself. Over the past two years, ESNS has already helped 50 artists make their tours greener. All artists performing at ESNS receive detailed travel information, including the option to apply for financial support if they travel more than 500 km.

From 2024 onwards, demand has grown so strongly that our annual budget is usually filled within the first week of applications. ESNS reserves around 50% of the Solidarity Sustainability Tax budget for the Green Tour Support programme.

Artists ESNS has supported so far include: Maella, Overpass, Superkoloritas, Sophie Jamieson, DONBASGRL, Joulie Fox, CVC, Marta Del Grandi, Tamara Kramar, Annie Taylor, Buzz’ Ayaz, Nathalie Froehlich, LEILA, Crème solaire, Shell Beach, BSI, Priya Ragu, Ascendant Vierge, ДEVA, Love'n'Joy, TUKAN, Maria Chiara Argirò, Tramhaus, Eee Gee and Donkey Kid.

At ESNS, we bring the European music industry together in Groningen, but we know that travelling here has an impact. That’s why part of the budget has been invested in fuel replacement, with ESNS purchasing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in collaboration with SkyNRG. At the same time, social sustainability is equally as important to us. For this reason, part of the budget goes towards social sustainability initiatives, ranging from our Mental Health Help Desk to accessibility measures like sign interpreters during shows.

Lastly, as a showcase festival, we want artists to keep growing internationally and support their summer tours. To help make those opportunities sustainable, we reserve another 25% of the budget for the Europen Talent Exchange network, enabling sustainable touring for ESNS acts throughout the summer.

All contributions are kept separate from the festival budget and carried over year to year, ensuring every Delegate’s support directly benefits artists and visitors, now and in the future.

Thank you to all of our Delegates for supporting the ESNS artists!