Involving more people than any other stage of the process, it’s no surprise that production also creates the most waste. The good news? This means this is the area with biggest potential for improvement!

Changes can be made to the way we make use of paper, fuel, electricity, water, food scraps, transport, building materials etc. Commit early to sustainability goals and communicate these clearly to cast, Heads of Department and third party providers/facilities during your contract negotiations.

Click on the below links to view sustainability initiatives broken down by department/provider.

When approaching facilities such as studios, VFX companies and post houses for quotes, ask about their sustainability policies and what initiatives they have in place. Whilst many may not offer the ultimate sustainable service, the very fact that their prospective clients are asking about sustainability, reiterates its importance.

Ask the facility

• Do they have a sustainability management policy in place?
• Does the facility have any green build, energy efficiency rating or compliance with certifications?

Communications and Engagement 

• Is there a greening committee or staff member with coordinating responsibility for overseeing sustainability efforts at the facility?
• Are the facility’s sustainability goals and initiatives communicated to staff and are they engaged in projects?

Sourcing

• Does the facility have a sustainable procurement policy? If so, what sustainable sourcing practices are in place e.g. are environmentally sound cleaning supplies used, is toilet paper made from 100% recycled paper content, do kitchens or in-house catering use sustainably sourced produce, what paper is used in copiers?
• Does the facility have preferred sustainable suppliers?
• Will the facility approach existing suppliers to improve their environmental sustainability practices in order to win your business?

Power Supply & Efficiency

• Is mains power sourced from a renewable energy supply e.g. GreenPower?
• Is any renewable energy generated onsite e.g. solar panels?
• If there are in-house temporary power generators, are these run on biodiesel or other renewable fuel?
• Are energy conservation strategies in place e.g. power down policy, sensors, insulation, passive solar?
• Are energy efficient equipment and operating procedures in place for HVAC (heating/ventilation/air conditioning)?
• What energy efficient appliances are used e.g. refrigeration, office equipment, computers and servers?
• Does house lighting use energy efficient bulbs, and operating procedures e.g. switch off policy, sensors, LED lighting, use of natural light?

Waste

• What waste reduction and avoidance initiatives are in place at the facility?
• Does the facility have on-site waste segregation services including office and commercial grade recycling, composting and set strike salvage?
• For studios, are additional bins and segregation stations provided by the facility, or do you need to arrange your own? 

Transport

• Is it easy to access the facility by foot or bike?
• Is there bike parking?
• Is public transport easily accessible from the facility? If so, ask for details.

 
Water

• Are water-saving initiatives in place e.g. dual flush/low flush toilets, water saving shower heads, water saving dishwashers & washing machines, low flow taps with spring load return/auto shut off/sensors?
• Does the facility capture and use rainwater?
• Are grease traps, and paint wash up sullage tanks installed?
• Is greywater collected and re-used onsite e.g. discharging of water from pools or other water effects?

Reporting

• Are energy, waste and water and wastewater volumes measured and reported for the facility?
• Can they provide volumes attributable to your production’s activity?

As the central nervous system of production, the Production Office has a big role to play in communicating and overseeing environmental sustainability practices. From compiling of call sheet and script distribution, to ensuring departments comply with sustainable purchasing policies, this department can significantly impact on the sustainability mindset of a production.

Suggested actions:

Communications

• Ensure you have commitment from the main decision makers and influencers in the Production Office. Without their engagement, greening initiatives may not succeed. 
• If not already in place from the Development stage, establish a secure online hub to share documents and files. This will reduce paper use.
• Make use of teleconference or video conference facilities (in many instances Skype will do). This will reduce unnecessary travel, saving time, money and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Provide a weekly ‘green award’ (or even a Green Oscar!) to a crew member or department, seen to be participating and actively finding ways to be more involved in the production’s sustainability initiatives.
• Use call sheets to remind crew of key green initiatives, tips and provide encouragement.
• Update cast and crew on the production’s sustainability achievements and works in progress in production meetings, briefings, inductions or lunch talks.
• Use signage and creative communications to remind crew of the production’s commitment to sustainability. This can be as simple as signs in the kitchen, near photocopiers and over light switches.

Procurement

• Look to hiring or borrowing equipment as opposed to buying new and selling off after the production. 
• Choose productis that have independent eco-laberl certification. This ensures that the products are as environmentally sound and socially acceptable as possible. 
• Purchase locally to support the local economy and reduce transport impacts.
• If not local then to buy Australian manufactured products made from Australian materials as a first preference.
• Choose products with ethical production and fair labour policies and practices eg Fairtrade coffee and tea.
• Choose products made from sustainably harvested, grown or mined raw materials. eg look for the green stationary line by your office supplies provider. 
• Choose products made with sustainable manufacturing processes and are non-toxic. eg cleaning products. 
• Choose products made from recycled material. eg recycled plastic pens, notepads, paper, toilet paper. 
• Choose products with low manufacturing carbon and water footprints.

Paper

• Select paper with the highest past consumer waste recycle content. Choose 100% post consumer recycled paper. Alternatively choose a paper with a mix of recycled and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forest paper. Look for paper made in Australia. 
• Promote electronic communication and reduce paper use wherever possible.
• Set the printer to always print double sided. If single sided is required, crew will need to manually set their print job to single sided. 
• Reuse single sided waste paper as note pads or put back in the copier for draft printing. 
• Ensure paper recyling bins are placed under desks, beside copiers and printers, and in central office locations. Try to keep paper separate from other recyclables as high-grade paper is sought after recyclable material. 

Kitchen and Cleaning

• Use reusable coffee mugs and reusable water bottles in the office, and bring your own reusable travel mug for drinks bought outside of the office.
• Choose Organic, Fairtrade certified tea, coffee and chocolate.
• Purchase eco-friendly, non-hazardous, biodegradable cleaning products.
• Choose products that have independent eco-label certification.
• Use cloths and rags instead of paper towels.
• Compost food scraps (see waste below).
• Keep reusable bags on hand for shopping and errands.

Energy

• What is the source of the production office energy? Is it on a GreenPower tariff? If not, consider purchasing GreenPower credits equivalent to your total kWh usage to have your production office power from renewable energy sources. This can be done through your electricity retailer.
• Place clear signage and posters in offices reminding crew to turn off lights and equipment when not in use.
• Use natural light where possible e.g. open blinds and curtains.
• Use fluorescent, halogen or LED office lighting. Change light bulbs if possible to these energy saving options if you are using the Production Office for some time.
• Disable screensavers on computers, this reduces power consumption.
• Unplug peripheral equipment when not in use. Don’t leave them in stand-by mode.
• Don’t leave equipment attached to chargers once they are full e.g. phones and laptops don’t need to be charged overnight.
• Use office heating and cooling sensibly. Open windows and let fresh air in.

Waste

• Determine what existing waste procedures are in place on the lot or at the location.
• If the facility does not provide the ultimate recycling segregation you would like to have, then arrange a separate service with waste facilities and contractors available locally to the lot and locations.
• Ensure you understand how waste segregation, handling, and processing occurs locally so you match your waste creation and segregation accordingly.

Prevention & Reduction:

• Identify items that are waste-creating and put programs in place to reduce these.
• Use water filters and re-usable water bottles, rather than plastic single-use bottles. Provide refillable water bottles to crew, or use glasses in the kitchen.
• Avoid disposable cups or providing bottled packaged water.
• Purchase large soft drink bottles instead of individual cans.
• Encourage crew to have re-usable coffee cups rather than using disposable/takeaways.

Segregation:

• Set up waste segregation areas with appropriate signage at various locations around the lot (by department, for offices, inside sound stages, near Unit, near Catering, servicing Extras and for ‘on the go’ around the lot and on location.
• Set up removal services for mixed recycling, compostables, timber, metal, e-waste, hazardous waste, used cooking oil, film plastic (cling wrap, pallet wrap), polystyrene, high quality office paper (probably secure paper disposal), cardboard and general waste.
• Ensure all crew follow the segregation. Induct them into the system and reward those that achieve great results.

Offices:

• Establish in-office recycling systems. Place recycling bins under desks.
• Consider having ‘mixed recycling’ for plastics, glass and metals AND ‘paper recycling’ for office paper.
• Consider only placing recycling bins under the desks and make crew walk to centralised general waste bins. If this is done, ensure centralised recycling bins are also placed next to these general waste bins to capture recycling ‘on the go’.
• Ask crew to refuse polystyrene food packaging if buying meals offsite.
• You may have a secure document shredding bin, make sure all good quality paper makes it in this bin rather than in the mixed recycling (with cans and bottles).
• Dispose of batteries and light bulbs in allocated e-waste bins.
• Ensure all crew know where recycling and e-waste bins are located both within the office, and externally on set
• Collect and recycle ink toners and cartridges.
• Use refillable ink cartridges rather than purchasing new as the bulk of the manufacturing impact is in the creation of the cartridge not the toner.
• Donate surplus office supplies to another production, local school or non-profit organisations.
• Collect anything that can be salvaged and on-send to facilities such as Reverse Garbage 
• Ensure crew follow the segregation rules.

Measurement:

• Ensure you have systems in place to measure waste results.
• Ultimately you will be reporting in weight or volume so ensure the information you collect is one or the other for harmony of reporting across various waste types. (weight is generally the best, but realise that timber waste will be high on many productions and is comparatively heavy).
• Report waste for pre-production, shooting and striking of sets both on the lot and on location.

Transport

• Hire bike messengers for office couriers.
• Encourage efficient use of taxis e.g sharing rides.
• Avoid multiple small runner trips for supplies, order in advance and efficiently, and schedule runner’s trips as infrequently as possible.
• Ensure systems are set up to track fuel use for ground transport (runners, cast and crew movements). Whilst this may ultimately be collated through Accounts, the Production Office should request that each department track their own usage and report regularly. Be sure to also stipulate the logging of all other fuel usage to ensure the production’s greenhouse gas emissions inventory is as complete as possible.

The Accounts Department should give key considerations to energy saving and paper reduction. There are several simple procedures that can be implemented to ensure both of these are achieved. Refer to the Production Office tips for office related energy conservation, waste segregation/management and reduction, paper use reduction and general procurement tips.

The accounts department is a key player in assisting the measurement of impacts. Ensure accounts are categorised in such as way to assist in the ultimate sustainability reporting of the production. This can include the following:

Suggested Actions:

• Track cast and crew flights. Ensure departure and arrival points are logged, along with date and seat type (Economy, Business, First). This information will be converted into greenhouse gas emissions for the production.
• Track fuel use. This should be by fuel type (petrol, diesel, biodiesel) and by usage (vehicles, plant/machinery, power generators) and by department if possible. This would be by dollar amount, but if possible also include litres.
• Track electricity use. This would be reported in kWh on the bills, however it will be processed by dollar amount. If possible log the kWh when processing the bill.
• Track waste created. This would be reported in either number of bin removals, by weight or by volume. Track this information as well as dollar amount. Also segregate by department if possible.
• Track water used and waste water discharged. The Facility will invoice the production for water consumption and possibly for volume of waste water discharged. This can include sullage from catering or paint wash-up tanks, or discharging from large water effects. Track the volumes (litres or cubic metres) as well as the cost, so that final volume reporting is easily accessible.
• Track gas use. Gas will be used for welding, possibly for forklifts and also for catering. Track the volume (generally reported in kg tank sizes by gas type), by department if possible. You will find welders use a certain gas tank size, versus catering, so segregation by department will be simple.
• Track hotel nights. Report on the number of hotel nights, breaking these down according to whether the property is a ‘green hotel’ or not. Summarise total nights spent in each property, by room type if possible.
• Track timber volume. Report the total timber purchased for the production against the disposal method. Metrics needs to be established based on the type of timber being used e.g. sheets of ply, lengths of timber by type and size. Talk to Construction to work out who will be doing the tracking.
• Talk to whomever is doing the sustainability reporting for the production to see if there are other things that need tracking.

Art Department sustainable initiatives have been combined with Construction Department.

Suggested actions:

Design

• Re-use as much material as possible from other productions or salvage yards.
• When designing, consider the final disposal of the sets. How will they be deconstructed? Will salvage be possible? Design with salvage rather than landfill disposal in mind?
• When designing and building, keep disassembly in mind – use screws, not staples, nails or adhesives.

General Procurement

• Buy Australian manufactured products made from Australian materials as a first preference.
• Choose products with ethical production and fair labour policies and practices.
• Choose products made with sustainable manufacturing processes.
• Choose products made from recycled materials.
• Choose timber, paints, materials, adhesives and other products that have independent eco-label certification. This ensures that the materials are as environmentally sound and socially responsible as possible.
• Use water-based rather than solvent-based paints, glues and varnishes.
• Choose products that are non-toxic and chemical-free. Avoid products with the following toxic compounds: formaldehyde, polyvinyl chloride, phthalate plasticizers, brominated flame retardants, chromium, chromate copper arsenate.
• Source recycled flooring (carpets etc) and rent where possible.
• Choose products with low manufacturing greenhouse gas and water footprints
• Choose service providers who have sustainability policies to ensure sustainable operations and their own sustainable sourcing

Timber

• Use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) timber in construction.
• Avoid plywood and particleboard which contain formaldehyde-based adhesives.
• When working with commonplace MDF (containing formaldehyde) be sure to follow the safety precautions detailed in the Material Safety Data (MSD) sheet.
• Avoid using tropical plywood (Luan Pine) unless Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified as there can be serious ramifications including deforestation. For more information visit Rainforest Relief
• Track timber volumes (see reporting below). 

Paint

• Avoid canned spray paint. Use air powered or electric paint gun.
• Use plant‐based paint strippers rather than solvent based. New products (biodegradable) are on the market that, whilst still having potential health hazards, are water soluble and non-caustic. These are free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are environmentally sound.
• Look for no or low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints.
• Choose paints with the eco-label ‘Good Environmental Choice Australia’ certification.

Waste

• Determine what existing waste procedures are in place on the lot or on location.
• If the facility does not provide the ultimate recycling segregation you would like to have, then arrange a separate service with waste facilities and contractors available locally to the lot and locations.
• Ensure you understand how waste segregation, handling, and processing occurs locally so you match your waste creation and segregation accordingly.
• Don’t throw empty paint tins in general waste, as they end up in landfill. Instead, recycle - have a scrap metal bin onsite for all to use.
• Don’t throw away left over paint, flats, carpet etc. Instead donate to community groups or a reuse centre.
• Reuse set materials from past productions when possible, and donate set materials at the end of production to companies such as Reverse Garbage, film schools and community theatre
• During deconstruction of sets, minimise sending materials to landfill - devise protocols for deconstruction including on-set treatment and segregation of materials e.g. de-nailing so that timber can be reused or recycled effectively.
• Don’t pour paint and contaminated water down the drain. Ensure it is disposed of through on-site sullage tanks or for paint, as hazardous waste.
• Use rags instead of paper for clean up, and reuse them as many times as possible

Waste Segregation:

• Set up on the waste segregation areas with appropriate signage wherever Art Department/Construction activities are occurring. This can be in department workshops, mills, on sound stages or on location. Ensure all segregation options are always available in all places that have construction/creation activities.
• Segregation for timber should include timber for storing for reuse on the production, timber to be sent offsite for re-use/salvage, timber for recycling (chipping – and probably mainly de-nailed), and timber for disposal to landfill (hazardous timber such as MDF).
• Segregation for other materials would include: metal recycling, mixed recycling (plastics, glass), paper/cardboard, film plastic (pallet wrap/shrink wrap), hazardous waste, paint or other materials for salvage/donation, polystyrene, e-waste general waste for landfill.
• Set up removal services for all of the above, as needed.
• Ensure all crew follow the segregation rules. Induct them into the system and reward those that achieve great results.
• Empty aerosol cans should be able to be placed in the recycling bin or scrap metal bin (check with local council). Remove plastic tops first.

Energy

• Allow rechargeable batteries to fully drain before recharging
• Shut off power and all appliances when not in use
• Power down for cleaning, bump in and out

Measurement & Reporting

• Track and report volume of timber purchased which is certified and that which is sourced in Australia versus overseas.
• Ensure you have systems in place to measure waste results.
• Ultimately you will be reporting in weight or volume so ensure the information you collect is one or the other for harmony of reporting across various waste types. (weight is generally the best, but realise that timber waste will be high on many productions and is comparatively heavy).
• Report waste for pre-production, shooting and striking of sets.
• Include in waste reporting the volumes of timber used versus timber discarded, recycled or salvaged at the end of the shoot (you will therefore be reporting the chain of custody of disposal of all timber procured.)

To ensure the Art Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

The largest consideration for the Camera Department is electricity use and appropriate disposal of waste consumables. By doing simple things, such as unplugging equipment when not in use, not overcharging equipment and disposing of batteries and film appropriately, a significant amount of power can be saved and landfill contamination avoided.

 Suggested actions:

• Unplug equipment when not in use, (this includes equipment that features ‘stand-by mode’) as it will continue to draw energy when not in use
• Use rechargeable batteries
• Upon completion of the production, donate batteries which are still usable or take to the next production.
• Dispose of extinguished batteries at the e-waste disposal point on set.
• Avoid tape if shooting digitally.
• Consider shooting digitally rather than with on film if appropriate.
• Ensure systems are set up to track fuel use for ground transport (runners, cast and crew movements). Whilst this may ultimately be collated through Accounts, each department will need to track their own usage. Be sure to log all other fuel usage to ensure the production’s greenhouse gas emissions inventory is as complete as possible. 

A range of processes can be implemented to maximise the sustainability of the Catering Department. They include procuring sustainable products (food, cleaning supplies etc) and importantly reducing waste.

Suggested actions:

Procurement

• Buy local or Australian products and produce to reduce food miles and support the local economy. Promote the locally sourced produce to cast and crew. Perhaps arrange for local produce e.g. honey, oil, relishes, to be available for purchase by cast/crew to further support the local economy.
• Increase vegetarian options. The ecological footprint of vegetarian versus meat products is considerably reduced.
• Choose products with ethical production and fair labour policies and practices e.g. Fairtrade coffee and tea. 
• Source organic, free range meats, eggs and dairy, sourced locally if possible.
• Ensure only sustainably harvested seafood. Use the Marine Stewardship Council guide.
• Choose environmentally sound, biodegradable, solvent-free cleaning supplies.
• Choose bin liners made of biodegradable materials.
• Choose products that have independent eco-label certification. This ensures that the products are as environmentally sound and socially responsible as possible.
• Request minimal packaging when ordering supplies.
• Provide reusable plates, cups, utensils and linens. Washing up, whist still using water, is far less impact than land-filling. If this is not an option, use biodegradable or recyclable utensils and plates for example BioPak or Environmental Enterprises.
• Ensure all packaging is matched with the lot or location waste services.

Waste

• Determine what existing waste procedures are in place on the lot or on location.
• If the facility does not provide the ultimate segregation you would like to have, then arrange a separate service with waste facilities and contractors available locally to the lot and locations.
• Ensure you understand how waste segregation, handling, and processing occurs locally so you match your waste creation and segregation accordingly.

Waste Prevention:

• Avoid unnecessary waste – don’t over cater.
• Provide reusable plates, cups, utensils and linens. Washing up, whist still using water, has far less impact than sending disposables to landfill.
• If re-usable service-ware is not an option, use biodegradable or recyclable utensils, plates and bowls. The choice between recyclable or biodegradable will be dependent on your waste service and end processing options chosen.
• Provide hand-held snacks that don’t require packaging or service-ware.
• Eliminate waste-in-waiting by avoiding using single serve items.

Waste Segregation:

• Set up waste separation facilities both front-of-house catering and back-of-house in kitchens. Also set up a bulk waste area.
• Waste segregation should include; cardboard/clean paper, film plastic (shrink wrap and pallet wrap from deliveries), polystyrene, mixed recycling (metal, plastics, glass), food waste (compostable), used cooking oil (arrange a pickup), and general waste for landfill.
• Clearly label all bins and monitor if this signage is effective. Adjust if required.
• Investigate composting options for processing uneaten or spoiled food and kitchen prep scraps. Set up a plate scraping station in catering to capture plate waste.
• Investigate donation of perishable prepared food to a food salvage program such as Oz Harvest.
• Communicate through signage how cast and crew can help catering waste segregation systems to be successful, and what initiatives are in place.

Water

• Ensure water conservation methods are in place.
• Do not leave taps running during prep or wash up.
• Capture waste water and have it disposed of appropriately, rather than tipping it out onto the ground.

Whether behind or in front of the camera, everyone can ‘play their part’ to improve the sustainability performance of the production.

Suggested actions: 

• Ask for electronic scripts and only print out the pages you need
• Ask  to stay in sustainably operated accommodation (see Travel and Accommodation)
• Ask for a hybrid vehicle, low emissions vehicle, or diesel vehicle.
• Avoid bottled water, instead bring a reusable a refillable bottle to work
• Walk to work – or if it’s too far catch the bus/train/ferry or ride your bike
• If you must drive to work, try to carpool – you’ll save money, and time (thanks to transit lanes)
• Encourage your fellow co-workers to recycle and compost in production and catering
• Be open to PR opportunities to promote the production’s green initiatives
• Have your department runner report on green initiatives in your area

The following suggestions supplement those provided under each department. 

 Suggested actions: 

• Ask for electronic scripts and only print out the pages you need
• Ask to stay in sustainably operated accommodation. See Travel and Accommodation.
• Ask for a hybrid vehicle, low emissions vehicle, or diesel vehicle.
• Avoid bottled water, instead bring a reusable a refillable bottle to work
• Walk to work – or if it’s too far catch the bus/train/ferry or ride your bike
• If you must drive to work, try to carpool – you’ll save money, and time (thanks to transit lanes)
• Encourage your fellow co-workers to recycle and compost in production and catering
• Be open to PR opportunities to promote the production’s green initiatives
• Have your department runner report on green initiatives in your area

The choices made by Construction - both in procurement and dismantle - can have a significant impact on a production’s sustainability goals. By taking care when sourcing materials and seeking opportunities for re-use at the end of shoot, the Construction Department can play a major role in ‘greening’ a production.

Construction Department sustainable initiatives have been combined with Art Department.

Sourcing/creating costumes and garment cleaning are the two biggest areas of focus for the Costume Department. Renting, re-using and re-purposing costumes, using ENERGY STAR® appliances and selecting the right dry-cleaning processes can make a big contribution to production’s green bottom line.

Suggested actions:

Procurement

• Rent costumes where possible
• Use recycled/vintage costumes where possible
• Opt for organic cotton when dressmaking

Cleaning 

• Use ENERGY STAR® appliances
• Use cold-water washes
• Adjust water level to suit the load
• Line dry if possible
• Buy biodegradable, phosphate-free, plant-based detergents (environmentally sound and marine friendly). 
• Consider alternatives to traditional dry-cleaning such as wet cleaning (which avoids use of perchloroethylene/PERC/tetrachloroethylene) and CO2 cleaning (which uses liquid CO2 to clean garments, thereby eliminating the use of perchloroethlene).
• If you must dry-clean, ask local companies about their environmental management Do they use energy efficient machines? Do they use eco-friendly products?
• Cut down on dry-cleaning plastic by providing your own garment bags, or asking dry cleaners not to use plastic covers
• Return dry cleaning hangers for re-use
• Donate excess hangers and garment bags at the end of shoot

To ensure the Costume Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, procurement and waste segregation suggestions found under Production Office.

Not all productions have a Greens Department, but for those that do, some basic things can be done in procurement and at wrap, to maximise sustainability performance.

Suggested actions:

• Use native plants where appropriate, and purchase from local plant suppliers
• If existing plants need to be removed from location, place them in a temporary nursery close by to avoid soil contamination. Replant at the end of shoot.
• Think organic – buy organically grown plants and use products such as organic mulch.
• At the end of shoot, donate pots, left over mulch and plants to local community.
• Where green waste is produced, try to facilitate a composting  or mulching initiative.

The biggest sustainability issue for Hair/Makeup Department is worker health (a social sustainability consideration). Prosthetic and makeup specialists must have well-ventilated working areas and wear appropriate protective clothing.

Many of the environmental sustainability efforts in the Hair/Makeup Department are based on making the right purchase decisions i.e. where possible selecting natural and toxic-free products that are locally sourced and disposing of containers appropriately. 

Suggested actions:

Procurement

• Use Australian owned and made products
• Use products with natural and organic ingredients
• Avoid products that involve animal testing – either of the end/finished product, or of ingredients
• Ensure products are safe to use on sensitive skin
• Avoid products with harmful preservatives, colours, fillers, synthetic ingredients and chemical emulsifiers

Waste

• In many regions, empty aerosol cans are able to be recycled with other metals (confirm with local council that the local recycling can accommodate this kind of waste).
• Avoid products with excess packaging. If buying bulk make the request to the suppliers direct
• Donate left over product and supplies to community organisations

To ensure the Hair/Makeup Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

Location Managers have the unenviable task of facilitating access to often sensitive locations where set builds or earth works may be required. They must also walk a fine line between meeting the production’s needs, and keeping local land-owners and communities happy.

Suggested actions:

Scouting

• As you scout, discuss the likely environmental impact at each location. Be conscious of National Parks and sensitive areas and limit crew numbers/foot traffic in these areas.
• Ensure each location has its own Environmental Management Plan drafted during pre-production.
• Use hybrid, low emission or diesel vehicles.
• Arrange car-pooling between people that need to attend locations together.

On Location

• If tree removals are required, seek advice from local government or environmental groups. Aim to remove and replant where possible, otherwise plant new (local native) greenery upon bump out.
• Be conscious of tree damage – never staple or nail to trees.
• Ensure nothing is left behind and where possible leave a positive legacy in the area you have visited.

Power

• Accurately estimate generator requirements to reduce over supply of power and burn off of unused capacity (resulting in potentially preventable greenhouse gas emissions).
• Use generators that run on biodiesel (made from reclaimed vegetable oil or sustainably grown fuel crops).
• Enquire if mains power can be accessed and if it is on a renewable energy supply (See GreenPower) 
• Consider purchasing GreenPower credits equivalent to your total kWh usage. This can be done through your electricity provider. 

Waste

• Are any existing waste procedures in place at the location?
• Research the waste facilities and contractors available to the production on location.
• Ensure you replicate all waste procedures on the lot when out on location.
• Liaise with catering to ensure they have access to waste facilities and contractors.
• Avoid pre-packaged plastic water bottles.
• Have water refill stations on location for cast and crew.
• Provide cast and crew with their own reusable water bottle.
• If you must have cups, choose the correct disposable cup to match your waste management processes e.g. plastic, paper, compostable or recyclable.
• Research the waste facilities and contractors available in your location areas.
• Request reports on weekly waste collection so you know exactly how much recyclable, compostable and other waste materials are being removed from site.

To ensure the Locations Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

The largest consideration for the Lighting Department is electricity usage and bulb disposal. By doing simple things, such as selecting the right lighting and turning lighting off or powering down when not in use (or in some circumstances, using dimmers) a significant amount of power can be saved.

Suggested actions:

• Consider other ways to reduce the need for power e.g. reflectors, use chimeras, bounce cards.
• Keep across advances in energy efficient lighting technologies and utilise them where possible.
• Use grid/mains electricity where possible. This is more efficient than using mobile diesel generators, and therefore producing less greenhouse gases.
• At the end of shoot, donate items like gels to local film schools
• Dispose of spent compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs (which contain mercury) as hazardous waste – be sure to confirm with waste services which bins are appropriate for disposal.

Facilities Lighting

• Turn off all lighting not in use, and utilise dimmers to reduce energy between bright shots.

Mobile Generators

• Carefully estimate generator requirements to ensure no oversupply (in number or size). This will reduce eventual greenhouse gas emissions as if over-size generators are supplied, unused capacity may be burnt off.
• Carefully plan distribution so that some generators can be switched off when not needed i.e. isolate the equipment that needs constant power from that which needs power for shorter periods. This ensures the generators are not left on to only power a few items.
• Use biodiesel (produced from sustainable sources) in generators. Ensure the Gensets used are always fuelled by biodiesel, rather than being swapped to this fuel just at your request.
• If mineral diesel must be used in generators, consider purchasing GreenPower credits. This can be done through your electricity provider.

To ensure the Lighting Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

In many cases script requirements allow for limited flexibility in selecting on-camera vessels. Nonetheless preferences can be stipulated with respect to procurement and to minimise fuel usage.

Suggested actions:

Procurement

• Where possible source boats locally (especially for camera vehicles where script requirements do not apply)
• Ensure any rented vessels have been maintained well as this will ensure they are fuel efficient, thus emitting less greenhouse gas emissions.

Fuel Use

• Advise skippers not to idle their vessels, waste fuel, creating emissions and possibly localised pollution.
• Maintain all vessels in optimum operating condition, to keep fuel consumption as low as possible, thus emitting less greenhouse gas emissions.
• Enquire if, or suggest for, marine providers to recycle oil.
• Track fuel use to include in the production’s final greenhouse gas inventory

To ensure the Marine Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

By communicating positive sustainability stories to media, the Publicity Department can generate considerable exposure for a production. Having discussions with the Producers and Director in pre-production is helpful in ensuring media access to key cast and crew.

Suggested actions:

Publicity

• Request a meeting with Locations to discuss possible on-site environmental concerns and publicity risks (noise, tree removal, increased foot or vehicular traffic, blocking access to public areas).
• Ascertain whether a donation in lieu of fees for locations such as National Parks and public areas can be accommodated. This can result in positive publicity for both the production and community.
• Communicate legacies and community involvement with crew and local/international media
• If shooting on location and conducting earthworks or builds etc, understand the re-vegetation process and consider offering cast or high-profile crew members for a publicity shoot. Ensure they are knowledgeable about the production’s sustainability initiatives and have positive things to say about the local area.
• Research local and international awards/recognition for sustainability – why not apply?

Community Engagement

• Invite local school groups to set to experience filming first-hand and discuss with them the production’s greening initiatives. Remember, sustainability includes social and economic outcomes as well as environmental ones.
• Communicate positive green stories with local press
• Engage with Local Council on the production’s sustainability goals and initiatives

To ensure the Publicity Department’s office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

The largest consideration for the SFX Department is in the selection and disposal of products (chemical reactants) used in creating practical effects. By nature, many effects are environmentally invasive. Some may give off fumes and require special clean-up protocols.

Suggested actions: 

• Aim for least invasive effects possible (minimal residue, reduced solvents and emissions)
• If the production is conducting explosions on land, hire an expert to survey the local plant and wildlife to understand the local landscape e.g. which trees can be impacted upon, whether bird nests require moving.
• If the production is conducting explosions in water, survey the local area for sea grass, reefs, fish habitation and understand the percussive impact on fish within the explosion radius.
• Ensure crew handling chemicals have a well-ventilated working area and wear appropriate protective clothing. Be sure to follow the safety precautions detailed in the Material Safety Data (MSD) sheet.
• Avoid burning materials such as plastic and rubber.
• Use water-based smoke fluids.
• Use biodegradable artificial snow and ash products.

Mobile Generators

• Carefully estimate generator requirements to ensure no oversupply (in number or size). This will reduce eventual greenhouse gas emissions as if over-size generators are supplied, unused capacity may be burnt off.
• Carefully plan distribution so that some generators can be switched off when not needed i.e. isolate equipment that needs constant power from that which needs power for shorter periods. This ensures the generators are not left on to only power a few items.
• Use biodiesel (produced from sustainable sources) in generators. Ensure the Gensets used are always fuelled by biodiesel, rather than being swapped to this fuel just at your request.
• If mineral diesel must be used in generators, consider purchasing GreenPower credits. This can be done through your electricity provider.

To ensure the SFX Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, procurement and waste suggestions found under Production Office.  

The largest consideration for the Sound Department is electricity usage and battery disposal. By doing simple things, such as unplugging equipment when not in use and disposing of batteries appropriately, a significant amount of power can be saved and landfill contamination can be avoided.

Suggested actions:

• Unplug peripheral equipment when not in use, as well as equipment that features ‘stand-by mode’ as it will continue to draw energy when not in use
• Use rechargeable batteries
• Set up an e-waste disposal system for batteries
• Report on total batteries used and disposed

To ensure the Sound Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, procurement and waste suggestions found under Production Office.

This section combines Transport Department and Action Vehicles.

Whilst company movement cannot be prevented for the sake of sustainability, there are a range of simple initiatives which can be implemented by the Transport Department to help increase a production’s sustainability performance.

Similarly, although in many cases script requirements allow for limited flexibility in selecting on-camera vehicles, preferences can be stipulated with respect to procurement and in order to minimise fuel usage.

Suggested actions:

Vehicle Choice

• Where possible source vehicles locally
• Ensure any rented vehicles have been maintained well
• Rent hybrid, low emissions or diesel vehicles where possible

Vehicle Use

• Encourage bike use on the lot, provide bike parking or a pool of general use bikes.
• Encourage car-pooling to the lot and arrange bulk transport to location
• Encourage the use of public transport for commuting if appropriate. Provide information on public transport to crew
• Advise drivers not to idle their vehicles
• Combine deliveries and errands to make as few trips as possible
• Maintain all vehicles in optimum operating condition
• Recycle oil
• Where possible, for electric vehicles, utilise energy from grid as opposed to generators

• Trailers
• Turn off generators for unused trailers
• Ensure environmentally sound cleaning products are used by cleaners in trailers
• Provide biodegradable and plant based personal care products
• Set up in-trailer recycling systems (good messaging to cast) or ensure waste is sorted appropriately out of trailer.
• Turn off air conditioning if not required. 

Reporting

• Track fuel use to include in the production’s final greenhouse gas inventory. Separate Action Vehicles fuel use from off-screen vehicles.
• Consider reporting on number of hybrid, low emissions or diesel vehicles in the fleet as a percentage of total vehicles.

To ensure the production’s Transport Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, procurement and waste suggestions found under Production Office.

Accommodation is a contributing factor towards a production’s impacts. When booking accommodation for cast and crew, use hotels with sustainability policies, initiatives and possibly green build or other green hotel certification. Air travel (and ground travel) will likely be a major contributor to the production’s greenhouse gas inventory. This also needs to be monitored.

Suggested actions: 

Accommodation

• Choose hotels that are sustainably operated and have been independently assessed and certified.
• Look for green/sustainability certification such as National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS), Earthcheck, GreenGlobe, Green STAR.
• Reduce travel impacts by choosing hotels within easy walking distance or a short bus/train/cab ride.

 If no certifications meeting your requirements are in place at the hotels, ask if the hotels have any sustainability initiatives in place. What should you look for?

Look for initiatives that will reduce the impacts of the hotel’s operations including:

• corporate sustainability policy
• sustainable building infrastructure
• energy conservation and sustainable energy supply
• water conservation, water capture and water recycling
• waste management and landfill diversion initiatives
• chemical free cleaning
• housekeeping-based initiatives (towels, sheets, toiletries, etc)
• sustainable food and beverage procurement (local, seasonal, organic, Fairtrade)
• water wise grounds maintenance
• staff training
• disclosure of performance

Travel

• Rent hybrid, low emissions or diesel vehicles where possible
• Opt for rail travel where viable
• Minimise air travel (which is responsible for the highest greenhouse gas emissions on production) – consider video-conferencing for some cast/crew who don’t live locally.
• Choose Economy flights and promote the fact that your actors and key crew flew this way. First Class greenhouse gas emissions are four times that of Economy and Business Class is three times!
• Avoid private/charter flights

Reporting

• Track the number of flights, distance and routes used for the production. You may wish to segment this into Development, Pre-production, Production, Post-production and Launch. Convert this data into greenhouse gas emissions to include in the total greenhouse gas inventory for the production.
• Track fuel use for ground travel and include in the greenhouse gas inventory for the production.
• Purchase carbon offsets for all air travel.
• Track the number of hotel nights used for the production and include in the total greenhouse gas inventory for the production.
• Report on the number of hotel nights spent in lodging with sustainability credentials or certification, against total hotel nights booked for the production.
• Report on number of hybrid, low emissions or diesel vehicles in the fleet as a percentage of total vehicles.

To ensure the Travel Department office is also being ‘greened’, adhere to the energy, paper and waste segregation/management and reduction suggestions found under Production Office.

Much of Unit’s sustainability efforts can be made through smart choices with respect to provision of on-site facilities and equipment (toilets, tables and chairs etc). Given the Department also maintains a close-working relationship with Catering and Locations, they also have a role in reiterating waste management and safety considerations to cast and crew.

 Suggested actions: 

Procurement

• Buy local or Australian products and produce to reduce food miles and support the local economy. Promote the locally sourced produce to cast and crew. Perhaps arrange for local produce e.g. honey, oil, relishes, to be available for purchase by cast/crew to further support the local economy.
• Choose products that have independent eco-label certification. This ensures that the products are as environmentally sound and socially responsible as possible e.g. Fairtrade coffee and tea.
• Provide reusable plates, cups, utensils and linens. Washing up, whist still using water, is far less impact than land-filling. If this is not an option, use biodegradable or recyclable utensils and plates for example BioPak or Environmental Enterprises.
• Ensure all packaging is matched with the lot or location waste services.
• Don’t use single plastic spoons, single plastic wrapped teabags, try to avoid plastic coffee cup lids.
• Minimised single served packaged snacks or choose those with recyclable packaging.
• Use environmentally sound cleaning products and ensure all toilet paper is made from 100% recycled paper content.
• Where appropriate add stipulations in supplier contracts regarding sustainable operations and their own procurement of products.
• Request minimal packaging when ordering supplies
• Keep reusable bags on hand for shopping and errands
• Donate surplus supplies to another production, local school or non-profit organisations.
• Do not offer plastic water bottles - promote use of refillable water bottles and provide water refill stations

Energy

• Use fluorescent or LED lighting where possible
• If arranging diesel generators carefully estimate requirements to ensure no oversupply (in number or size). This will reduce eventual greenhouse gas emissions as if over-size generators are supplied, unused capacity may be burnt off.
• Use biodiesel (produced from sustainable sources) in generators. Ensure the Gensets used are always fuelled by biodiesel, rather than being swapped to this fuel just at your request.
• If mineral diesel must be used in generators, consider purchasing GreenPower credits. This can be done through your electricity provider.

Waste

• Determine what existing waste procedures are in place on the lot or at the location.
• If the facility does not provide the ultimate recycling segregation you would like to have, then arrange a separate service with waste facilities and contractors available locally to the lot and locations.
• Ensure you understand how waste segregation, handling, and processing occurs locally so you match your waste creation and segregation accordingly.
• Ensure you replicate the waste procedures on the lot when out on location.

Prevention & Reduction:

• Identify items that are waste-creating and put programs in place to reduce these.
• Avoid unnecessary waste – don’t over cater.
• Use water filters and re-usable water bottles, rather than plastic single-use bottles. Provide refillable water bottles to crew, or use glasses in the kitchen.
• Avoid disposable cups. If you must have cups, choose the correct disposable cup to match your waste management processes (eg plastic, paper, compostable or recyclable).
• Purchase large soft drink bottles instead of individual cans
• Encourage crew to have re-usable coffee cups rather than using disposable/takeaways.
• Provide hand held snacks that don’t require packaging or service-ware.
• Collect anything that can be salvaged and on-send to facilities such as Reverse Garbage 

Segregation:

• Set up waste separation facilities in the areas Unit is responsible for managing.
• Clearly label all bins and monitor if this signage is effective. Adjust as required.
• Communicate through signage how cast and crew can help catering waste segregation systems to be successful, and what initiatives are in place.

  Measurement:

• Ensure you have systems in place to measure waste results
• Ultimately you will be reporting in weight or volume so ensure the information you collect is one or the other for harmony of reporting across various waste types. (weight is generally the best, but realise that timber waste will be high on many productions and is comparatively heavy).
• Request reports on weekly waste collection so you know exactly how much recyclable, compostable and other waste materials are being removed from site.

Water

• Have hand-sanitiser available to reduce water usage
• Use waterless or low-water use toilets on location at Unit Base
• Use environmentally sound cleaning products