Report Highlights Urgent Need For Sustainable Practices In European Film And TV Industry

A new report, Greening European Film Policy: Towards a Sustainable European Film and Television Industry, has been released, emphasising the critical role of collaboration between academics, industry leaders, and policymakers in addressing the environmental impact of Europe's film and television sectors.

The report underscores the importance of applying research in driving policy shifts and industry best practices toward sustainability.

Co-authored by environmental media experts Pietari Kääpä (University of Warwick) and Hunter Vaughan (Emerson College/Cambridge), the report presents a comprehensive analysis of current practices, highlights areas for improvement, and outlines actionable recommendations for industry-wide transformation.

Professor Pietari Kaapa from the Centre for Cultural and Media Policy Studies at the University of Warwick, explained: "We’re at a pivotal moment where academic research can directly inform and support industry practices, and that’s why working closely with production companies and policymakers is essential.
"This report offers a roadmap to help the industry embrace sustainable practices and align with broader environmental goals."

Drawing from detailed surveys and consultations with industry insiders, the report highlights both success stories and challenges across European nations.

Best practices include the implementation of energy-efficient production techniques, reduction of waste, and the integration of sustainable materials in film and TV sets. However, the report also identifies significant needs, such as stronger support structures for smaller production companies and more consistent application of sustainability standards across the continent.

The report advocates for a series of industry-focused solutions, such as:
• Collaborative policy development between academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to ensure consistent sustainability standards

• Increased support for industry training and development, particularly for small and medium-sized productions

• Independent third-party audits to ensure transparency and accountability in sustainable practices

• Graduate student initiatives, aimed at equipping the next generation of media professionals with the tools and knowledge to lead the industry's sustainability efforts

The report is the culmination of over five years of work by the Global Green Media Network (GGMN), a collective of academics, sustainability experts, and industry professionals committed to advancing sustainable media production practices.