hollywood
Hollywood’s quest to cut carbon emissions
As climate themes grow in television shows, the entertainment industry tackles behind-the-scenes decarbonization.
In short:
- TV and film productions are significant carbon emitters, especially due to fuel use for transportation and diesel generators.
- The Sustainable Entertainment Alliance promotes greener practices like hydrogen and solar power, sustainable set construction, and reducing food waste.
- Reality TV shows and documentaries are leading the way in showcasing sustainable practices on-screen and off.
Key quote:
“There are so many benefits to the alternatives to diesel generators — one of them obviously being emissions — but they’re also quieter and less polluting.”
— Sam Read, executive director of the Sustainable Entertainment Alliance
Why this matters:
The entertainment industry’s decarbonization efforts can reduce environmental impacts and set a positive example for millions of viewers. As TV shows incorporate sustainable practices, they help normalize eco-friendly behaviors and inspire change.
Researchers aim to boost climate change themes in Hollywood movies
A new study reveals that most Hollywood blockbusters fail to address the reality of climate change, despite public demand for more relevant content.
In short:
- A study by Colby College researchers examined 250 movies from 2013 to 2022, finding that less than 10% acknowledged climate change.
- Films like "Justice League" and "Don't Look Up" passed the climate reality check, while many popular movies did not.
- Streaming services featured a higher percentage of climate-aware films compared to major studios.
Key quote:
“They are portraying a world that is now history or fantasy — a world in which climate change is not happening.”
— Matthew Schneider-Mayerson, Colby College
Why this matters:
Accurate representation of climate change in movies can raise awareness and inspire action. Ignoring it in popular culture perpetuates a disconnect between reality and public perception, hindering efforts to address the crisis.
Be sure to read EHN’s related coverage:
Amanda Shendruk: Climate change movies shouldn't be about only disaster and apocalypse
Hollywood should play a positive role in the fight against global warming by offering a wealth of stories that help humanity make sense of and address the present and future of life on a dangerously warming planet.