Siti Syuhaida Mohamed Yunus, EIF Project Research Associate
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an essential tool in the film industry in efforts to improve sustainability. LCAs can help filmmakers evaluate the environmental impacts of different aspects of production, including green screen technology, and prop and costume making (for more information on how a life cycle assessment is conducted, see my earlier blog post ‘What, How and Why’). The LCA is vital because it enables filmmakers to understand and minimise the ecological footprint of their projects, thereby promoting environmentally responsible practices in the industry1.
For example, green screen shooting is widely used in the film industry to create digital backgrounds on physical sets2. By using LCA methods, an analyst can estimate the impact of the materials involved, including the green screens themselves and the digital technologies used. The assessment helps identify areas with high carbon emissions and resource consumption, enabling filmmakers to explore sustainable filmmaking alternatives and energy-efficient solutions. Meanwhile, props and costumes play a vital role in conveying story, character, and themes in films. LCAs can be used to evaluate the materials, manufacturing processes, and transportation involved in creating these items (an example is the EiF project’s Artoo Detoo case study).
Making more sustainable choices based on LCA data, such as selecting biodegradable or recycled materials and minimising water usage during production, can significantly reduce the ecological footprint of the film industry. Figure 1 shows why are we concerned about the end-of-life of the props and costumes, which could end up in a landfill without a proper plan. Here are the main reasons why Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is crucial for enhancing sustainability in film production (Figure 2).
Figure 1 Will these costumes end up in a landfill or be reused/repurposed?3
Figure 2 There are four main reasons why LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) is significant in filmmaking.
1. Sustainable Decision-Making:
The LCA methodology helps the film industry to make sustainable and informed decisions. It considers the entire lifecycle of raw materials and equipment, from the extraction process to production, use, and disposal. This approach guides filmmakers in selecting eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and lowering energy consumption throughout the filmmaking process4.
2. Carbon Footprint Reduction:
Filmmaking can have a significant carbon footprint due to energy-intensive production processes and transportation. LCAs help identify opportunities for carbon footprint reduction. For instance, it can help identify where energy-efficient lighting, adopting low-impact transportation options, and employing sustainable set-building practices will be effective.
3. Eco-conscious Filmmaking:
In a world affected by climate change, where people are even more conscious of the environment, audiences and stakeholders are increasingly seeking eco-friendly practices in filmmaking. The LCA allows filmmakers to showcase their commitment to sustainability by measuring the reduction in carbon emissions, conservation of resources, and minimising waste during production1.
4. Compliance with Sustainability Goals:
Industries including filmmaking, are accountable for their impact on the environment and need to comply with government and other sustainability goals. The LCA is a useful tool for the industry to comply with these objectives. LCA provides important data to track progress, report on environmental performance, and align with sustainability standards5.
To summarise, the LCA plays a crucial role in the film industry. It guides filmmakers in making environmentally responsible choices and can help the industry decarbonise and align with global sustainability goals. As the industry continues to evolve, the LCA will be vital in creating a more sustainable and eco-conscious future for filmmaking.