In some cases, unfortunately the ideal sustainable option may come with a price tag that doesn’t align with the production budget. However, there are some initiatives guaranteed to save the production money.

Top 10 ideas

1. If flights are necessary, fly economy. The cost of an economy class ticket AND carbon offsetting will still be cheaper than business class
2. Ensure all production printers are default set to print double-sided
3. Use hybrid cars and save on fuel costs
4. Approach eco-friendly companies to feature in your film or provide their product for crew (cars, equipment etc). Make sure they receive a credit!
5. Buy in bulk
6. Request minimal packaging from suppliers – remember, the less trash you have, the less you pay at the dump!
7. Reuse costumes and set materials from past productions when possible (and donate them again at the end of production).
8. Look to hiring or borrowing equipment as opposed to buying new
9. Assess ENERGY STAR® certification when renting equipment to select the most energy efficient.
10. Cater efficiently, increase vegetarian options and don’t buy bottled water.

A wide range of initiatives can be implemented on the production to help save the environment. They range from simple office set-up processes, to more detailed on-set strategies.

Top 10 ideas

1. Ensure there are clearly labeled bins on set and in the office – recycle, e-waste, compostable, hazardous waste, reuse/donate, landfill and if relevant compostable
2. Don’t use disposable water bottles. Give cast and crew production-branded aluminium bottles at the start of production, and provide water stations on set for convenient refilling
3. Promote electronic communication and reduce paper use wherever possible
4. Select paper with the highest post consumer waste recycled content
5. Ensure all production printers are default set to print double-sided
6. Identify bulk materials that would normally not be recyled and set up systems to do so - this includes polystyrene, film plastic (from garment bags and palletized deliveries), and timber
7. Hire a green consultancy to implement policies and provide comprehensive reports upon wrap
8. Use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) timber in construction and stay away from MDF if possible
9. Ensure each location has its own Environmental Management Plan drafted during pre-production
10. Request reports on weekly waste collection so you know exactly how much recyclable, compostable and other waste materials are being removed from site

By involving cast, crew and third party providers/facilities in a production’s sustainable practices productions can leave a lasting Impression within the community, the supply chain and with audiences.

 Top 10 ideas

1. Invite local school groups to set to experience filming first-hand discuss the production’s greening initiatives
2. Give back to the community by hiring locals as interns and have them help with sustainability initiatives
3. Use local businesses wherever possible – support the local community and reduce the production’s carbon footprint by minimising transport
4. At the end of shoot, gift useful materials to local community groups
5. Support community initiatives e.g. If any site rehabilitation is required, ensure local contractors are hired to undertake works and monitor progress
6. Look for publicity opportunities for both production and local community e.g. sustainable site management, site rehabilitation, donations to local school or community groups
7. Provide cast/crew sustainability training and, if appropriate, offer to conduct an education/information session with local community to discuss sustainability initiatives
8. Take an interest in local community events. Have a stand at the local market, make a donation to the local school fete or have cast and crew volunteer for local Clean Up Australia Day
9. If a local community doesn’t have the capacity to handle your sustainability requests, investigate options and leave your research/intelligence with local groups for their ongoing benefit.
10. Be sure to mention the local community in PR releases during pre-production and production. This increases media exposure for the local community and local businesses