ABC/Randy Holmes
Environmentalists want Elton John to reconsider his decision to headline a Portuguese music festival over concerns that it will damage a nearby nature preserve, U.K. newspaper The Guardian reports.
Local campaigners have reportedly written an open letter to Elton, asking him to boycott the Marés Vivas festival. The event is set to take place in July on an area of land close to the Duoro River Estuary, which is home to more than 220 species of birds.
“More than your business and your art, please consider the environmental importance of the area,” the letter reads. “…Elton John, we strongly believe that if anyone is able to change the stubborn minds of the festival managers it is you.”
Campaigners say “damaging” preparations for the festival have already begun, including bulldozing and cutting down trees. They’re worried that the crowds, noise and lights from the festival will further impact the preserve.
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