Champions of Environmental Activism Through Music
The Icelandic music icon Björk, known for her unique artistic vision, has joined forces with the Asturian-Catalan singer Rosalía, a rising star in the global music scene. Their collaboration is not just a fusion of musical talents but also a united front in an environmental cause. The duo's latest single marks a significant foray into activism, with its proceeds dedicated to battling the controversial practice of open-pen salmon farming in Iceland.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
Björk's inspiration for the song dates back twenty-five years, drawing from a dancehall beat, a genre she identifies as the precursor to reggaeton. Her decision to collaborate with Rosalía was influenced by the latter's expertise and success in this genre. Björk expressed her gratitude on social media, emphasizing Rosalía's generosity in dedicating her talent and resources to this environmental cause.
A Deep Dive into the Issue
The heart of their activism lies in the growing concerns surrounding open-pen salmon farming. This method of aquaculture has been under scrutiny for its potential harm to the environment. Key concerns include the escape of farmed salmon, which poses a threat to wild salmon populations through possible interbreeding and disease transmission.
Industry Under the Microscope
Two major players in the industry, Mowi and SalMar, have faced criticism and legal scrutiny. Mowi, through its subsidiary Arctic Fish, encountered police investigations following a mass escape of salmon. SalMar, owning the Icelandic company Arnarlax, also faced backlash due to a sea-lice outbreak in its facilities, which was described as a welfare disaster by experts.
Björk: A Vocal Advocate
Björk has increasingly used her platform to voice environmental concerns. She views artists as sensitive to emerging crises, acting as early responders to environmental emergencies. Her critique extends to the perceived greed-driven approach of the salmon farming companies, accusing them of prioritizing profit over ecological balance.
The Industry's Dark Side
One the description of her song on YouTube, Björk shed light on the darker aspects of salmon farming. She argued that ill health and suffering are ingrained in the industry's business model, painting a grim picture of the reality behind this method of aquaculture.
The Song as a Call to Action
The single, "Help Fight Fish Farming in Iceland," features poignant and introspective lyrics, reflecting the dilemma and moral questioning surrounding the issue. The song is not just a musical piece but a rallying cry, urging listeners to consider the impact of their choices and the industries they support.
Moving Forward
As Björk and Rosalía use their art to spotlight environmental issues, their initiative stands as a testament to the power of music in driving social change. Their efforts bring to the fore crucial conversations about sustainable practices and the responsibility of industries in safeguarding the environment.