The Teatro Colón joins the global trend of reducing paper use in its operations. As part of its Colón Verde program, the institution decided to regulate the printing of hand programs and offer accessible digital alternatives for the entire audience.
The goal is to conserve resources, reduce waste and modernize the experience, without sacrificing content or quality.
How to access the program
- QR card (free): each spectator receives a card with a unique and collectible artistic design upon entry. By scanning the code, they access the full program in digital format, optimized for mobile screens.
- Printed program: available for those who wish to keep it as a souvenir. It can be purchased through online pre-purchase on the Theater’s website, with pick-up in the foyer or the Store, or by in-person purchase at sales stands before each performance.
According to general director Gerardo Grieco, the measure aims to “conserve resources, reduce waste, and modernize the audience’s experience without sacrificing content or quality.”
Environmental benefits of digitalization
The transition to digital has positive impacts on the environment:
- Conservation of natural resources: paper production consumes large amounts of water and wood. Digitalizing avoids deforestation and reduces the carbon footprint associated with the transport of printed materials.
- Reduction of waste and pollution: paper represents a significant percentage of daily waste. By reducing its use, pollution from chemicals and inks in the paper industry is decreased.
- Energy efficiency: printers, copiers, and climate-controlled storage spaces are eliminated, reducing energy consumption.
- Positive impact of the cloud: although servers consume energy, digital management can reduce the carbon footprint per user compared to the management of physical files.
A renewed experience for the audience
The initiative not only responds to environmental criteria but also to a cultural modernization:
- Digital programs allow information to be consulted before, during, and after the performance.
- Collectible cards provide additional artistic value, becoming keepsake objects.
- The printed program becomes a more carefully crafted edition, intended for those who wish to keep it as part of the experience.
The Teatro Colón demonstrates that sustainability can be integrated into cultural management without losing quality or tradition. The digitalization of hand programs is a concrete action that reduces the carbon footprint, modernizes the audience’s experience, and strengthens the responsible relationship with heritage and the future.
