Production companies, among many industries, can and should play a role in limiting the effects of climate change. When you think about the potential of catering waste for large crews on location and studio shoots, disposable and temporary sets, the energy consumption of equipment and transportation, airfares and transpo, or even things as simple as printing signage, emissions add up.
With this in mind, we are sharing several actionable steps to support a sustainable production.
Set the stage with your cast and crew
Sustainable production is a practice that’s only as good as its education, consistency, and accountability. Educating your team on the long-term harm of not following these practices is crucial in reaffirming every individual's role in steeping change within our industry. Whether working with new or regular crews, creating a culture around the “why” behind sustainable production goes a long way to achieving meaningful climate-friendly methods on set.
Here are some examples:
Designate a team member to encourage and educate others on set
Promote reusable items like water bottles, signage, or props
Work with local vendors with environmentally-friendly practices
Use signage to educate on sustainable practices, such as where to place trash versus recyclable materials
Find digital alternatives
We know the need for the “production book” is still engrained in us, but digital habits are becoming the norm, and utilizing digital resources can make a valuable difference. Consider enacting small changes like training crew and personnel to rely on their digital tools, phones, tablets, and laptops to access call and production visual materials. When absolutely necessary, finding ways to print on recyclable paper is always the best approach.
To limit air travel, Domestic and international production encourage agencies and clients to limit their personnel attending the shoot. Working with digital techs experienced in streaming live on secure zoom and google viewing methods can be an excellent solution. Similarly, consolidate team members into as few vehicles as possible during in-person tech scouts or shoots.
Donate unused goods
Once you wrap a production, many materials could traditionally go to waste, but there are options to donate items. For example, local food banks will often arrange to pick up safe-to-eat foods or drinks. Some organizations also collect materials specific to production sets to help give them a second life with public school productions or other creative projects. Printers or office equipment needing to be purchased locally for larger or longer productions can easily be donated directly to schools or nonprofits. It’s simple to engage your local crew to come up with a great idea for perfect recipients.
Are you looking for sustainable production support?
By considering these tips, you’re already on your way to establishing meaningful and sustainable production practices. These types of efforts support your crew, costs, our climate, and the health of our planet!. While maximizing resources efficiently, we are committed to minimizing our impact on the earth. We shape all our projects around delivering dynamite visuals, a rewarding production experience with a sustainable footprint.
Call us to learn more about our sustainable production practices and get started on a project together! (401) 225-3743