tv shows
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.
Mentions of climate change in scripted entertainment largely absent
While there has been much research on social, political and economic issues in media and its impact on viewers, there has been little to none on climate change. It’s a major topic, as the United Nation’s latest report keeps pleading for more aggressive and accelerated actions in order to avert a climate catastrophe.