European iIndependent Label Industry Association impala has released its third annual carbon accounting report.
The latest edition provides an overview of the independent sector’s carbon footprint and updates on developments made to the tool in 2025.
“Building on the initial report identified in the first report and the practical actions outlined in the second report, this third edition represents an important step forward in creating the most accurate picture of emissions to date and ensuring alignment with current best practices,” the statement said.
Released in 2022, IMPALA carbon calculator is the first environmental impact measurement tool custom-built for the independent recorded music sector.
Powered by Julie’s Bicycle, this calculator helps IMPALA members measure their carbon footprint using a standardized methodology that aligns with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) corporate standard, the most widely used framework for reporting an organization’s greenhouse gas emissions. This tool is supported by merlin EU network grants for Murmur and IMPALA.
Key highlights of the new report include:
Vinyl factor: This year’s report explores the music climate agreement and vinyl alliance.
Recording studio: Users will be able to select “Recording Studio” as the building type, allowing labels to record influences from occupied studios or third-party studios.
merchandise: The Beyond Carbon survey has been expanded to include a dedicated section on products to improve the record of environmental actions taken by labels.
User experience and new guidance sources: Improved reporting processes allow labels to quickly access targeted guidance and generate high-quality visual reports that clearly and accurately communicate progress.
Weidenmuller Sustainability Fund: This report highlights our continued partnership with Merlin. Weidenmuller Sustainability Fund has helped make this calculator accessible to a wide range of independent labels around the world.
Climate change investment and business case: The report provides guidance on climate change investing and organizations such as: whisper voiceoutlines the business case for sustainability.
US pilot project: Results of a pilot project launched in the United States A2IM And Merlin. This project was the first step in rolling out IMPALA’s carbon calculator to the world’s largest music market.
Practical action and industry collaboration: An updated suite of practical tips focuses on supply chain management and energy transition.
Richard Phillips, music lead julie’s bike“This third annual IMPALA Carbon Accounting report is a landmark moment for the independent recorded music industry. It provides the most accurate information to date on average emissions for independent labels. It follows important updates on how we measure the impact of vinyl production, reflecting the latest research from Music Climate Pact and Vinyl Alliance on vinyl lifecycle emissions.”
“Air cargo and business travel account for a larger share of total emissions than previously estimated. While record manufacturing remains the largest source of emissions, this result means a comprehensive sustainability strategy is needed to address multiple areas head-on. With support from Julie’s Bicycles, the IMPALA sustainability program will help labels embed this for long-term success.”
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