People and planet first
Production can no longer just be about the creative and cost efficiencies. The cost to the planet needs to be part of the decision-making process as well as ensuring fairness to
everyone impacted by the production whether they are crew
or the local population.
In order to understand how sustainability can be part of my every day professional live and what business can do to push the sustainability agenda I took the University of Cambridge Business Sustainability Management Course.
I have also undertaken the Adgreen training and use their calculator at the beginning of a project to help understand the impact of our actions and start the conversation on how we take steps to reduce carbon emissions.
A few things to consider to make a shoot more sustainable
Set sustainability goals early
Set out clear sustainability goals at the beginning of the project. To successfully reduce our carbon footprint, it is a collaboration throughout the creative process. Bring in a sustainable production expert early.
Location & travel
Travel & transport account for the highest percentage of carbon emissions in advertising production*. With time and careful planning this can be reduced.
*Adgreen's Annual Review, 03 2023
Energy & resource management
Energy & fuel used to power studios and locations are the next biggest emitter of carbon. Sourcing a studio with renewable energy ensures the energy used is carbon neutral. Try to use electric generators over diesel ones.
Materials & Wardrobe
Consider more sustainable materials for the set build or using a location where it already exists. Consider hiring your wardrobe from The Styling Bank - everyday essentials for commercial shoots and a way of saving money.
Catering
Make your shoot vegetarian, or preferably vegan. Encourage bringing reusable water bottles to fill up or coffee keep cups instead of using disposable ones. It's obvious but people (I include myself in that) need reminding.
Rehome, Reuse, Reduce
Rehome or reuse any materials, such as set build items or the clothing. Always aim for zero waste. Go paperless. Recycle - landfill should be the last resort. If you have client product return it or rehome it.