Circularity is the practice or policy of reusing and regenerating materials or products, especially as a means of continuing production in a sustainable or environmentally friendly way.

Costumes, Set Dec, Props and Construction have traditionally been departments that can produce a lot of waste. By empowering these departments to limit new material purchases through renting, second-hand procurement, and the reuse of materials in production design, you can create circularity for your production. Create the trust to have these conversations going forward.

It’s equally important to discuss sustainability wrap plans early in prep and throughout the production to set everyone up for a sustainable wrap.

How to Get Started

  • Speak with your creative team about the concept of materials reuse and help them plan by considering these questions:
    • Is everyone willing to look at second-hand options when and where possible?
    • Many second-hand finds require cash to purchase. Set this up with your accountant early in prep.
    • If new items are required, can they be procured locally to reduce the need for shipping?
    • Can departments work together to eliminate excess waste?
    • Can sets be designed to incorporate existing materials? For example, flats, windows, and doors can be reused on swing sets.
    • Make a plan for a sustainable wrap early in prep so that everyone is working toward the same goals.
    • Plan for items to be sold, donated, or recycled.
    • Ask for sustainable wrap budgets in prep.
    • Reach out to productions that are wrapping up for previously used items, and connect with those that are starting up to help give your show’s items a second life.
    • Be a sustainability leader! Spread the word!
  • Check with unions and guilds on their most up-to-date resources for recycling.
  • Communicate your successes to all financiers, studio execs, cast and crew so they build enthusiasm for your sustainable production and encourage others to follow your lead.

Who to Talk To

Learn which departments and crew can help you increase circularity and reduce unnecessary purchases and disposal of materials.

Communication Guide

Quick Math – Budgeting and Building the Business Case

  • Buying second-hand saves money, shipping, labor for assembly, and can save breakdown labor costs, etc.
  • Consider the cost of disposal when you evaluate the cost of purchase vs renting or re-using materials.
  • Diverting materials from the landfill can also save your production money. For example, a representative from Material for the Arts reported that on a recent NY-based TV series, an estimated $3.9 million worth of assets found new homes and avoided a landfill. This translated into a tax benefit for the studio.

What Does Success Look Like?

  • You saved money on the purchase of new materials.
  • Your crew is working together to prioritize reuse where possible, saving time, money and resources that can be refocused where needed.
  • You sold, donated, or recycled whatever was left over at the end of the show.
  • You’ve kept waste out of landfills, perhaps even recouping some costs.
  • You have low wrap waste disposal costs, showing that very little has gone to landfill.