Towards a sustainable and eco-responsible Festival: Meet Marie-Jo Valente, Chair of the Sustainability Committee

The results of an initial carbon footprint assessment have just been released, a foundational step in an ongoing transition towards greener practices. An in-depth look at this study and the many measures underway with Marie-Jo Valente, Chair of the Sustainability Committee.

“For the first time, we have a precise snapshot of our environmental impact.”
Marie-Jo Valente, Chair of the Sustainability Committee

The Festival continues to make progress in terms of sustainability. What are the main areas of focus?

Sustainability is not limited to environmental issues. We are working within a genuine corporate social responsibility approach, based on three pillars: governance, the environment and social responsibility. The aim is to gradually integrate these concerns across all areas.

What initial lessons have you drawn from this carbon footprint assessment carried out in 2025?

Before taking action, you need to measure. For the first time, we have a concrete snapshot of our environmental impact. By quantifying where our main emissions lie, this assessment shows us where to focus our efforts. Unsurprisingly, transport and travel account for the largest share of our footprint—more than half. Even though we are already working on better tracking of travel, notably through measures encouraging train travel, and on reducing supply distances by prioritising purchases from Valais-based companies, we want to refine our strategy.

Other areas were explored in greater detail…

This year, we entered into a partnership with Verbier Green to improve sorting and measure the waste generated by our activities. These data will enable us to quantify the different types and identify areas for improvement. In addition, we are working with students from HES-SO Valais-Wallis to help us structure our sustainable development approach.

Interview by Marie-Madeleine Gabioud

TALKS: Music Festivals & Sustainability

5:00 PM | Forum, Pavillon des Combins

Interview with
Marie-Jo Valente Verbier Festival
Justine Tincq rené•e
Steve Chambovey Festival des Cinq Continents

Moderator: Charles Sigel

Free admission

The Verbier Festival wishes to express its deepest gratitude to its patrons, sponsors, partners and public institutions for their support and generous contributions.