A+C Studios is Going Green

During the lockdown, we decided that when we got back into the studio A+C’s would make a commitment to becoming a sustainable animation studio. Since April 2021, we’ve been working hard to ensure that we focus on sustainability in all areas of our studios, starting with the physical space we use. In April, we took on new office space and were resolute in making it as carbon-neutral as possible, beginning with the structure itself. The building was derelict and needed a lot of attention. Still, we decided from day one to reuse what building material we could on-site, get second-hand materials where possible, and use sustainable LED and efficient technology throughout.

A pleasant revelation from the building works was uncovering the rubble and junk-filled courtyard that were now transforming into a bee-friendly garden to encourage biodiversity.

With the building in order, we’ve found one of the many benefits of running a greener set is that our crew’s mindset creates a ripple effect for future projects they are involved in. With that in mind, we have further aimed to encourage our industry and collaborators to reduce waste and its carbon footprint.

Ongoing improvements at A+C

Recycling – Margate is famously bad for its recycling, with no recycling collection at all near The Old Laundry. We are putting pressure on the council to improve its service so that we can recycle sufficiently; until that time, we will recycle what we can when we can.

Material from shoots will be reused or recycled via Margate Freecycle and Margate Artist Network.

Reducing plastic – Plastic is the devil, so we’re taking the reusable route. We have factored a kitchen into the new offices with cutlery and crockery to eliminate the need for any disposable items.

Finding digital alternatives – Film productions thrive on printing endless stacks of paper, but we live in a progressively more digital world. We’re adopting digital policies for e-signature applications, backup files in the cloud, and sharing Google Docs links rather than paper printouts. We are aiming for 100% paper-free by the end of 2023.

Encouraging virtual meetings – There are times when in-person meetings are essential. That being said, when possible, we will conduct a virtual meeting.

Reduce emissions with carpools, bikes and walking. Everyone is heading to the same location. We will coordinate staff willing to drive others and do as much as possible to fill up each car. Where possible, we will encourage walking and cycling to work.

Power Down – We will ensure the team make sure that lights are unplugged and turned off when not in use. When using a laptop on set for production purposes, keep it unplugged, and charge up again when the battery gets low. We power down everything that can be shut down and have an email pop-up at the close of the day to remind everyone.

Working with our community – Margate is a beautiful town and has a awesome community with lots of green initiatives popping up all the time. Our team are actively involved in and encouraged to participate in making Margate a green town.

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We’re by no means perfect, and every day is a learning curve, but we implore studios, collaborators and friends to make the change. Below is a list of websites we’ve found helpful on our voyage, keep an eye on our social for updates on the studio’s progress and let us know if you have any tips.

 

Useful websites

Green Filmmaking

Green Production Guide

Find Green Vendors

Books on Green Filmmaking

Downloadable Carbon Calculator

Movie Maker’s Article ‘Mindful Moviemaking’

CMS Code of Best Practices for Sustainable Filmmaking