Ultra Music Festival’s groundbreaking sustainability initiative, ‘Mission: Home,’ has once again been recognized for its outstanding contributions to environmental responsibility. The program was recently awarded the SUNsational Award in the Sustainability Program category at the 30th annual Florida Festivals and Events Association (FFEA) Convention & Expo held at the Renaissance Sea World Resort in Orlando, FL. This recognition reaffirms Ultra’s commitment to sustainability and positions ‘Mission: Home’ as a leader in festival environmental initiatives.
A Prestigious Recognition
The FFEA, a leading statewide organization dedicated to promoting and strengthening Florida’s festival and events industry, acknowledged ‘Mission: Home’ for its exceptional innovation and impact. Competing against over 500 submissions across 20 categories, Ultra’s program secured 1st place in Sustainability Program, highlighting its role in setting new standards for waste reduction, recycling, and environmental awareness within the festival industry.
This marks the fourth FFEA recognition for ‘Mission: Home’ following its 2022 achievements, which included first place in Volunteer Program, second place in Education Program, and a tie for second place in Sustainability Program.
Expanding Environmental Impact Since 2019
Since its inception in 2019, ‘Mission: Home’ has introduced 50 sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact. In its first year alone, the program achieved a 100% recycling acceptance rate, successfully reached 2.7 million people globally, and initiated substantial changes among vendors, staff, and attendees. By 2024, the program had grown exponentially, earning international recognition, including the Sustainability Team Award at the World Sustainability Awards and a finalist position for the Sustainability Excellence Award at the 2024 World Sustainability Awards.
Achievements at Ultra 2024
The 2024 festival showcased new milestones in environmental responsibility. A 50% waste diversion rate was achieved through waste reduction, repurposing, and recycling efforts. Since 2019, ‘Mission: Home’ has diverted over 293,000 pounds of waste from landfills, which is comparable to the weight of a blue whale. A new wood rescue and recycling program was introduced, diverting 19,600 pounds of post-construction materials through partnerships with Recreate Miami and Florida Wood Recycling. Additionally, food and beverage donations exceeding 19,400 pounds were made to The Caring Place, helping provide meals for the homeless community.
Strategic Partnerships for Sustainability
Ultra’s sustainability strategy extends beyond waste diversion. Clean Vibes, a leader in festival waste management, continued its 100% recycling acceptance rate. Replenysh, a traceable circularity platform, kept over 161,300 pounds of recyclables in the domestic supply chain over two years. Renuable expanded the festival’s composting program, while Lady Green Recycling introduced soft plastics recycling. Pollution Prevention and Nature Preservation initiatives included storm drain covers, wildlife protection, and responsible waste disposal.
Community Engagement and Global Awareness
Commitment to Climate Action
Ultra Music Festival continues to prioritize climate health and emission reduction. The festival partnered with CES Power and ZAP Concepts to expand power assessments, reducing reliance on traditional generators. We Are Neutral was brought in to invest in Florida-based carbon offset projects while Ultra continued to work on sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, the event enhanced its carbon emissions assessment protocols to better plan long-term climate strategies.
Looking Ahead: The Future of 'Mission: Home'
Verified in 2022 as “the most extensive sustainability program across America’s leading electronic music festivals,” ‘Mission: Home’ continues to evolve. As Ultra Music Festival prepares for its 25th anniversary in 2025, the program remains steadfast in its mission to “protect our home, reduce our environmental impact, and inspire our community to respect the planet.”
“Each year, we see this message come to life in lights on our stages in front of 55,000 attendees and millions watching online. While its importance is obvious, the fact that it exists at all speaks volumes, as the power of Ultra’s platform sets an example not only for the entire music festival industry, but for our audiences across the globe.” – Vivian Belzaguy Hunter, Sustainability Director, Ultra Music Festival
With its unwavering dedication to sustainability, Ultra Music Festival’s ‘Mission: Home’ is shaping the future of green music festivals and inspiring a new generation of environmentally conscious festivalgoers.
