Sustainability
What is sustainability?
Sustainability is the practice of meeting present needs in ways that protect resources, people, and the environment, ensuring they remain available for future generations.
In theatre, sustainability means creating work that is environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically viable. This includes reducing waste and energy use in productions, supporting the wellbeing and diversity of artists and audiences, and building theatre practices that can continue long-term without harm.
At Alternative Voices Theatre Company we strive to work in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are a global framework of 17 interconnected goals designed to improve life for people and protect the planet, both now and for future generations.
We prioritise good health and wellbeing (Goal 3) by supporting neurodivergent artists through meaningful creative activity, using an occupational therapy–informed approach that values individual life goals.
Our sustainability statement
Through quality education (Goal 4), we use theatre techniques to support day-to-day life skills and educate employers and theatre partners on accessibility and inclusive employment.
We are committed to creating a sustainable, inclusive future for both people and the planet. Guided by the SDGs, our work places wellbeing, equity, and responsibility at the heart of theatre practice. Sustainability for us means theatre that makes us feel seen, valued, loved and supported, nurtures people, communities, and the world we share—now and for future generations.
We are dedicated to gender equality (Goal 5) and believe that gender exists on a spectrum. Everyone is entitled to fair, respectful support and training, regardless of gender identity or expression. Our practice embraces freedom of costume, casting, and self-expression, including non-binary roles.
Through good jobs and economic growth (Goal 8) and reduced inequalities (Goal 10), we work to create fair employment opportunities for neurodivergent, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ artists, addressing barriers related to mental and physical health.
We practice responsible consumption (Goal 12) by reducing travel, meeting online where possible, using green web hosting, and developing a sustainable action plan to continually reduce our environmental impact.
Finally, through peace, justice, and partnerships (Goals 16 & 17), we amplify marginalised voices and collaborate with ethical partners who share our commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and social justice.
What we will do next in 2026...
- Connect with ethical funders
- Ethical Banking
- Attend local sustainability groups
- Complete carbon literacy training
- Create our sustainability action profile