Michael Eavis, the iconic co-founder of Glastonbury Festival, is more than a dairy farmer and music festival pioneer. His passion for community, sustainable living, and social causes continues to shape his actions. Let’s dive into what Michael Eavis is up to now, his recent achievements, and what the future holds.
Eavis’s Current Focus: Social Housing and Community
Affordable Housing for Locals
One of Eavis’s most notable current projects revolves around addressing the housing needs of the local community near Worthy Farm, the site of Glastonbury Festival. He has donated land to The Guinness Partnership, a housing association, to build affordable homes for those struggling to keep up with rising rents in the area.
- Maggie’s Farm Development: This project in Pilton has resulted in 52 new homes, including houses, bungalows, and flats, all built with eco-conscious features like air source heat pumps. The development is designed to serve the local community in perpetuity. Opens in a new window www.gettyimages.com Maggie’s Farm Social Housing Development
- Celebrity Endorsement: Gary Lineker, the renowned English footballer and TV presenter, has publicly praised Eavis’s social housing initiative as a model for addressing the UK’s housing crisis.
Table: Key Facts about Maggie’s Farm Social Housing
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Pilton, Somerset |
| Number of Homes | 52 |
| Types of Homes | Houses, bungalows, flats |
| Sustainability | Air source heat pumps |
| Ownership | The Guinness Partnership (affordable housing) |
Advocacy for Affordable Housing
Eavis has used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of affordable housing, not just in Somerset but nationwide. He has called on the government to take inspiration from his social housing model.
Recent Past Projects: Glastonbury’s Ongoing Evolution
While Eavis handed over the reins of Glastonbury Festival’s day-to-day operations to his daughter Emily in 2010, he remains deeply involved in its overall direction and evolution.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Glastonbury has become a global leader in sustainable festivals, thanks in part to Eavis’s commitment to reducing the event’s environmental impact. Initiatives include:
- Banning single-use plastics
- Promoting recycling and composting
- Utilizing renewable energy sources
- Encouraging sustainable transportation
- Philanthropy: The festival donates millions of pounds to charitable causes each year, including Oxfam, Greenpeace, and WaterAid.
Upcoming Projects: A Glimpse into the Future
Eavis has hinted at a few potential future projects:
- Expanding the Social Housing Model: He may donate more land for further affordable housing developments in the area.
- Glastonbury’s 50th Anniversary: While the 2020 festival was canceled due to the pandemic, plans for the 50th anniversary in 2025 are likely in the works.
- Continued Advocacy: Eavis will likely continue to use his influence to advocate for social and environmental causes.
Michael Eavis: The Man Behind the Legend
Net Worth
Eavis’s net worth is estimated to be around £100 million (approximately $125 million USD). This wealth comes primarily from his dairy farming business and Glastonbury Festival’s success.
Health
Eavis remains active and engaged in his projects at the age of 88. He has not publicly disclosed any major health concerns.
Age
Born on October 17, 1935, Michael Eavis is currently 88 years old.
Family
Eavis has five children from two marriages. His daughter Emily Eavis co-organizes Glastonbury Festival.
Conclusion
Michael Eavis’s legacy extends far beyond Glastonbury Festival. His dedication to social housing, environmental sustainability, and community well-being continues to inspire and make a positive impact. As he approaches his 90s, Eavis remains a driving force for change, leaving an enduring mark on the world.
FAQs about Michael Eavis
Is Michael Eavis still involved with Glastonbury Festival?
While he has stepped back from day-to-day operations, he remains actively involved in the festival’s overall direction and vision.
What is Michael Eavis’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around £100 million (approximately $125 million USD).
How old is Michael Eavis?
He is currently 88 years old.
What are some of Michael Eavis’s current projects?
His main focus is on developing affordable housing for the local community near Worthy Farm.
What causes does Michael Eavis support?
He is a strong advocate for affordable housing, sustainability, and various charitable causes through Glastonbury Festival.