San Sebastian Festival Rolls Out 1,840 m² of Recyclable Red Carpet for Sustainability Efforts
The San Sebastian Festival has once again reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability by rolling out a 1,840 m² red carpet made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials. Provided by the Sustainability Department of the Gipuzkoa Provincial Council, this eco-friendly initiative marks the third consecutive year of collaboration between the festival and the Council. The carpet will cover key areas outside the Kursaal Centre and along the path connecting the María Cristina Hotel with the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, guiding stars and guests during the event.
At the end of the festival, the carpet will be repurposed to create around 1,000 reusable bags, which will be donated to the Gipuzkoa Food Bank. This initiative involves the Emaús Gizarte Fundazioa's "No Waste" project and the company Spanset, underscoring the festival’s support of the circular economy. The reusable bags represent a tangible contribution to sustainability, giving the carpet a second life while promoting social solidarity.
Announcing the initiative, José Ignacio Asensio, the Deputy for Sustainability, emphasized the broader impact of the project: "This is a clear example of how sustainability can be integrated into large-scale events. Reusing the red carpet not only reduces the festival’s carbon footprint but also demonstrates the real societal benefits of a circular economy."
The San Sebastian Festival’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the red carpet. In 2024, the festival has pledged a €30,000 contribution to the Gipuzkoa Voluntary Carbon Fund, continuing its efforts to reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions. Since 2020, the festival has adopted several measures, including improving energy efficiency, reducing material waste, and promoting sustainable mobility, all aimed at minimizing its environmental impact.
Festival Director José Luis Rebordinos highlighted the symbolic and practical importance of the recycled red carpet: "This carpet symbolizes the festival's larger transformation, as we progress on a path towards a sustainable model. We’re not only making environmentally responsible choices but also showing how these actions can have a positive social impact."
Through its partnership with the Gipuzkoa Provincial Council and ongoing sustainable initiatives, the San Sebastian Festival continues to lead by example, pioneering the integration of responsible resource management into cultural events.