Rolling Out the Green Carpet
Reducing Film Production’s Carbon Footprint
NATALIE YODER
The magic of the silver screen has always been its ability to transport audiences to different worlds, but the film industry’s growing carbon footprint now calls for a return to real-world responsibilities. Behind the glitz and glamor of Hollywood lies one of the foremost contributors to carbon emissions. As the world continues to grapple with the consequences of climate change, the film industry is slowly beginning to reevaluate its practices and embrace sustainability in hopes of reducing its carbon footprint.
Blockbuster films bear a staggering environmental burden. Each production is responsible for generating an average of 2,840 tons of CO2, a quantity that would take 3,700 acres of forest an entire year to absorb1. This substantial carbon footprint can be attributed to factors such as the energy consumption on set, transportation emissions, and the waste generated by the extensive usage of props, costumes, and sets. Remarkably, the film industry’s carbon emissions rival those of the aerospace and apparel industries, highlighting its monumental ecological impact and reinforcing the pressing need for sustainable practices2.
In pursuit of sustainability in film production, several key practices have emerged particularly in regard to carbon emissions. One crucial practice is choosing sustainable locations for filming. This involves the strategic use of existing structures and sets to minimize the need for extensive additional construction. Additionally, the careful choice of locations in close proximity to one another not only streamlines the filming process but also reduces emissions associated with travel.
The industry is also gradually embracing the integration of energy-efficient equipment and practices. Notably, this transition includes the adoption of LED lighting, known for its lower carbon emissions, as well as the utilization of renewable energy sources. For instance, in 2010, Inception became the first big-budget production to be filmed using solar power3. Director Christopher Nolan initially faced criticism for the additional expenses incurred, but his decision inspired a significant shift in Hollywood practices. The cost of traditional energy sources is on the rise, while the cost of solar power is falling, making the choice to use renewable energy in film production much more economical.
This shift coincides with another essential aspect of sustainable filmmaking: reducing waste and promoting recycling. This commitment can be seen through the innovative approach of Vectar Project, a studio that crafts film sets entirely from recyclable materials like cardboard and paper3. The result of this choice is a 90% reduction in carbon footprint compared to sets constructed with the conventional and widely-used medium-density fibreboard (MDF). Vectar Project’s eco-friendly sets not only utilize recyclable materials but are also much lighter than those using MDF, reducing fuel consumption during transportation.
The implementation of these key sustainability practices requires collaboration and industry initiatives, of which several critical efforts have taken shape. The Green Film School Alliance (GFSA) unites film schools nationwide in a quest to integrate sustainable practices in film at the education level5. GFSA has recently introduced the Production Environment Actions Checklist (PEACHy), which is a
comprehensive collection of sustainable guidelines for production departments to standardize sustainability practices across the film industry. These guidelines include using rechargeable batteries for equipment, donating leftover costumes and props to charities, and using non-toxic cleaning products.
Major Hollywood studios and streaming companies have taken similar steps to reduce their carbon footprint. For example, Sony exemplified its commitment by installing solar panels on its lot, effectively offsetting 100% of electricity consumption during stage operations6. Additionally, Paramount constructed an alternate energy plant on its premises, resulting in a reduction of energy consumption to levels below those of 1990, saving 400 million tons of greenhouse gasses over the last decade6.
However, there is still much work to be done to reduce film production’s carbon footprint, as a complex set of challenges prevents the aforementioned practices from being more widely adopted. One significant obstacle is budget constraints. Environmentally-friendly initiatives often require upfront investments in green technologies, materials, and processes, which can be perceived as cost-prohibitive. Overcoming these constraints requires a reevaluation of financial priorities and an understanding that initial investments in sustainability can lead to long-term cost savings. To combat this, the film industry could develop and promote incentives that reward sustainability efforts, whether through tax incentives or industry recognition. That being said, tight budgets are not the only thing preventing film production companies from reducing their carbon footprint. The film industry has historically been resistant to change. Breaking away from conventional approaches, even if they are environmentally harmful, can be met with skepticism and resistance from industry professionals who are accustomed to more traditional filmmaking processes. Additionally, many filmmakers mistakenly believe that sustainable practices are at odds with their creative vision. They might fear that environmentally friendly choices could compromise the aesthetics or authenticity of their project. Addressing these challenges calls for a collective commitment to sustainability within the film industry, encompassing education, innovation, and a shift in mindset.
Reducing the carbon footprint of film production is more pressing than ever since the industry wields the influence to inspire positive change on a global scale. Its future lies in its ability to come together and adopt carbon-conscious practices, not only reducing its own ecological footprint but also setting a powerful example for other industries to follow. Many film production companies have started to champion these practices, but it is time for the rest of the industry to rewrite the script when it comes to sustainability, leaving a legacy of inspiration and change for a greener world.