Launch of Green Filmmaking Guidelines

by Emma_Chappel on 01-May-09 17:02

The second event in our green launch took place at the Arnolfini’s Hub centre last night. With Bristol Media’s new chair, Paul Appleby coordinating, Andrew Buchanan and a specially skyped in Larry Engel (in keeping with our green policy) took the floor and talked the assembled filmmakers and producers through the Green Filmmaking Guidelines and how to adopt best practice.

The Soil Association, Footprint Television and Green Film Practices were also on hand to chip in with advice on everything from sourcing caterers to post production houses.

There seems to be no doubt that, on the whole, the will amongst filmmakers to reduce the environmental impact of their work is there. It was heartening to hear how the crew on The Boat That Rocked, who – helped by Weymouth & Portland Borough Council and South West Screen - were issued with bicycles, recycling bins and bio-degradable cups for the shoot in Dorset, and continued with their new green practices when back in London.

Many of those attending felt daunted by the prospect of adopting new ways of thinking and operating. It would be good if there were an award to recognise green filmmaking, was one of the comments, whilst others wanted to know what the financial rewards would be.

The overall message from Andrew was that no step is too small to start with. He cited the example of one filmmaker who for each project, goes one step further than the last project and adopts another way of reducing his carbon footprint.

We took away the handouts (including a 10% off voucher for the River Cottage Canteen!) and plenty of food for thought. All we have to do now is get started!

Tagged:green filmmaking guidelines, green, film, locations

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