The Conscious Production Chain
Sustainable sourcing is a hands-on approach to reducing a film production’s overall impact by making conscious, ethical, and environmentally friendly choices throughout the entire supply chain. It’s a core component of ‘green filmmaking’ and involves evaluating potential vendors and materials not just on price and quality, but also on their environmental and social credentials. This practice is often spearheaded by a production’s Sustainability Coordinator or ‘Eco Supervisor,’ who works with every department to implement greener alternatives.
Sustainable Sourcing in Practice
This philosophy can be applied to nearly every aspect of a film set:
| Department | Sustainable Sourcing Example | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified lumber, reclaimed wood, or modular set walls that can be reused. | Reduces deforestation and construction waste. |
| Catering | Prioritizing local and organic food vendors, eliminating single-use plastic water bottles, and using compostable cutlery. | Lowers food miles, reduces plastic waste, and supports the local economy. |
| Wardrobe | Renting costumes, sourcing from vintage shops, or using fabrics made from sustainable or recycled materials. | Decreases textile waste and the environmental impact of ‘fast fashion.‘ |
| Transportation | Utilizing hybrid or electric vehicles in the production fleet and prioritizing vendors who do the same. | Reduces direct fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. |
By embedding these choices into the procurement process, a production can significantly lower its environmental footprint and create a more responsible and ethical workplace.