Because the Hulk Wasn't Green Enough Already

Earlier this week, Toronto's film production industry introduced the Green-Screen alliance, which has the goal of increasing the eco-consciousness of productions shooting in and around the city. At a time when more and more producers, directors and actors are supporting environmental charities yet not applying their tax-deductible beliefs to their own industry, Green-Screen is taking a welcome step inside. A voluntary initiative that will help film shoots to reduce their carbon footprint at all levels of production, the alliance is making an effort to put Hollywood North a step ahead of the rest when it comes to sustainable standards.

The mandate is already being accepted and applied to several major productions, including The Incredible Hulk, which has been traipsing around Toronto for much of this summer. The shoot reportedly even has an environmental consultant kicking around on set.

Practices being encouraged include everything from double-sided photocopying of scripts and biodegradable containers at craft services to the rental of hybrid production trucks and the reclamation of props and set materials, which are often sent to landfills. Green-Screen is even offering a handy resource guide that will help shoots find green products and services locally. Additionally, they want to implement a certification program to recognize companies that decide to get on board and, in turn, measure their environmental impact.

While the founders are still trying to find additional funding from provincial government programs to further the effort, their work to date will be discussed during a panel on "Going Green in the Film Industry" at next month’s Planet In Focus International Environmental Film Festival.

Photo by martin_j_carey.