Sustainability
How Moods is involved in the various areas of sustainability
Ecological sustainability
To achieve our environmental goals, we have implemented several measures in various areas. These measures relate to environmental protection, resource conservation, and reducing our carbon footprint. Below is a brief overview:The movement of bands is one of the main sources of CO2 emissions at many clubs and festivals. To minimize air travel, we avoid flying bands in for one-off performances whenever possible. When booking touring bands, we ensure their journey to and from the venue is as short as possible. We also encourage musicians to take the train. In return, we offer artists accommodations if they take the night train or have a long train journey. We have created a "green rider" that we send to agencies and bands. It lists all the sustainability-related information for the musicians. Thanks to our central location in Zurich, right next to Hardbrücke Station, many of our guests use public transportation. Energy consumption
We have taken various measures to reduce electricity consumption in the club. The greatest increase in efficiency was achieved by switching to energy-efficient lighting in the office and club areas. Additionally, we purchase 100% green electricity and use district heating as a sustainable energy source. Assortment & Catering
The signing of the «Charter for the Future» forms the basis for our sustainability measures in catering. The beverage range has been revised and, where possible, focuses on organic, local, and fair trade products. This also applies to the exclusively vegetarian dishes served at the bar and in the backstage area. In most cases, drinks are served in proper glasses, and if a straw is needed, it is made of cardboard. In addition, we are committed to recycling and redistributing surplus food in order to minimize food waste.
Social sustainability
To achieve our social goals, we have implemented several measures in specific areas. These measures relate to diversity, inclusion, equal opportunities, and social participation. Below is a brief overview:Creating a diverse program is important to us so that all of the diversity of our society is represented on stage. The current counting method used by clubs and festivals only counts bands with significant female representation. Any band with a female lead singer or main musician is counted as a FINTA band (female, inter, non-binary, trans, and agender). According to this method, 54% of the bands at Moods have significant female participation on stage. However, this greatly distorts the actual representation of FINTA individuals. In 2023, Moods surveyed the gender distribution on stage for the first time and found that FINTA* individuals accounted for 20% of performers. This is higher than the 11% stage presence of women* in pop, rock, and jazz reported in a preliminary study on gender relations in the Swiss cultural sector by Pro Helvetia and the Center for Gender Studies at the University of Basel in 2021. While this is better than average, our goal is 50%. Additionally, the booking team recognizes the importance of providing a stage and visibility to FINTA* individuals (women, inter, trans, non-binary, and agender individuals) and people who are not perceived as white. We recognize that there is still much to be done in the area of diversity. We are constantly striving to improve and are grateful for feedback. Awareness
We are committed to ensuring that everyone feels welcome at Moods. This commitment extends to all members of the team, guests, artists, and their crew, and it means that no one should ever fear discrimination or inappropriate behavior. Our principles are summarized in the manifesto, «Our Togetherness».Ticket System
We minimize financial barriers by offering various discounts, such as the Kulturlegi, which provides a 50% discount. Children under 12 who are accompanied by an adult are admitted free of charge, and young people aged 12 to 16 pay half price. We offer a ticket quota for the AOZ that allows people with N/F/S residence permits free access. For family concerts, families who cannot afford tickets may contact us to receive free tickets. Additionally, we offer free events, such as master classes, to promote cultural participation. Accessibility
The lower floor of the club is at ground level and accessible without steps. There is a barrier-free restroom accessible with a Eurokey. People who need a seat can contact us in advance by email or phone. Salary System
As an association, we are open and transparent about our finances. We strive for a balanced annual budget, investing any profits in further concerts and projects or setting them aside as reserves for economically difficult years. Our transparent salary system ensures transparency, equality, and fair compensation for our permanent employees at Moods. We offer flexible work schedules and provide opportunities for career changers.Value Chain
Individual concerts are recorded using our installed streaming equipment. These concerts can then be streamed live or viewed later on our website. Anyone who wants to use our streaming platform must purchase a subscription. Seventy percent of this revenue goes directly back to the artists, extending the value chain of their performances and generating additional income.