Hollywood’s Green Revolution: Actions or Just Empty Promises?

Hollywood is vocal about tackling climate change, but without clear accountability, the real impact is uncertain. In April, Paramount’s Douglas Rheinheimer showcased a new energy plant reducing CO2 emissions by 35% and saving millions of gallons of water, calling it beneficial “financially, environmentally, and also for our workforce.”

The era of climate denial is over in Hollywood. Studios now openly discuss their carbon neutrality goals, though the specifics are often vague. Zena Harris of Green Spark Group recalls how Al Gore’s 2006 documentary ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ spurred the industry’s environmental awareness, evolving from buying hybrid cars to corporate commitments. Major studios are making notable efforts. Warner Bros. Discovery has switched to eco-friendly LED lighting at its Leavesden facility and is exploring solar-powered equipment. Amazon MGM Studios aligns with Amazon’s goal to be carbon-neutral by 2040, supported by a $2 billion investment. NBCUniversal’s GreenerLight program aims for carbon neutrality by 2035.

Disney aims to use 100% zero-carbon electricity by 2030. Their 2023 Climate Change Report shows how minor operational changes can lead to significant energy savings. Yet, the absence of independent oversight means that much of what we know comes from corporate reports, raising concerns about greenwashing. Ironically, the recent cutbacks in production due to the streaming boom’s decline and industry strikes have unintentionally reduced emissions. The impact of AI on emissions is still unclear; while promising efficiency, it demands substantial energy for data centers and servers.

Sustainable practices often come with high costs, a barrier for smaller productions. Susan Sprung of the Producers Guild of America points out that most productions are financially constrained independents, struggling to afford going green. California’s strict environmental policies are pushing Hollywood towards sustainability. New legislation signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom mandates emissions reporting, adding pressure to account for the entire supply chain’s impact.

Some experts suggest adjusting production tax incentives to encourage greener practices.  Hollywood’s major climate challenge remains its dependence on fossil fuels, especially diesel generators. Jennifer Sandoval from Earth Angel mentions renewable diesel and battery alternatives, but notes resistance to unproven technologies. Disney and Netflix are leading initiatives to replace diesel with mobile batteries and hydrogen power units.

On set, eco-friendly behaviors are being encouraged, from reducing vehicle idling to offering vegetarian options. The concept of “circularity”—reusing and upcycling materials—is gaining traction. Digital solutions like Scriptation help reduce waste by digitizing scripts, cutting CO2 emissions. Hollywood’s journey towards sustainability is still in its early stages. Michael Kaliski of Good Planet Innovation believes true progress will be made when sustainable practices become as standard as on-set safety measures. For now, the industry’s green efforts are a work in progress, with much room for improvement.

SOURCE The Hollywood Reporter: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/hollywood-really-doing-enough-stop-climate-change-1235924793/