Production Overview
Every project is different. The goal is to be as sustainable as possible, whenever and where you can.
Producers are in a leadership position. If you communicate your intention to be sustainable early and throughout all conversations, your departments will take the lead in bringing solutions to the table.
Some greener alternatives are affordable now, while others may cost more up front but save in other areas of the budget. Look at all associated costs to build a business case for sustainable action. For example, additional labor to prep existing items for reuse may result in cost savings versus purchasing new materials. Communicate your intent and successes as often as possible.
Reduce Fuel
Reduce Fuel in Vehicles
- Use fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Use the right size vehicle for the job.
- Stop idling vehicles.
Reduce Generator Fuel
- Tie into the grid whenever possible.
- Use mobile batteries and hybrid battery generators.
- Use solar equipment.
- Use the right-sized power source for the power needs.
Reduce Materials
- Practice circularity and avoid single-use items.
- Rent whatever you can.
- Buy only what you need and prioritize second-hand materials.
- Re-use your materials instead of buying new ones.
Reduce Waste
- Implement waste management systems.
- Control your input.
- Purchase wisely.
- Choose to sell or donate rather than disposing.
- Recycle or compost first. The landfill should be the last option.
Section Elements
Under each of the three sections, we show you:
- How to Get Started: You don’t need to become a sustainability expert, but every bit helps lighten a production’s carbon footprint and ensure you’re running as efficiently as possible.
- Who to Talk To: Our communications guides offer producers concrete tools to help you set the intention of running a sustainable production and better support crew and cast in their efforts to bring forward solutions.
- Tips: Simple facts to help your sustainable efforts.
- Success: Key indicators to show you what is working.
- Quick Math: Quick calculations to help you build the case for financiers, studios and collaborators on why thinking about sustainability is also good for the bottom line.
- Resources: Featured resources will be called out at the end of a section. These include relevant tools, checklists, calculators, and other audio/video resources. For a complete list of resources, visit the Resource Library for a comprehensive list of all production and storytelling resources.
The Production sections were developed by Clara George, an award-winning television producer and renowned champion for sustainable production. She is a member of the PGA’s Sustainability Task Force and its Clean Energy Working Group.
Communication Guides
Guides to help producers communicate with their creative teams and support cast and crew in bringing forward sustainable solutions.