Need ‘green’ filmmaking, says Pandey

PANAJI: Wildlife filmmaker Mike Pandey made some very pertinent points while speaking at the Open Forum at Iffi. He said that making films leave behind a heavy environmental footprint by way of usage of energy to power electrical equipment, as also by damaging trees/vegetation to film scenes, etc. There is, therefore an urgent need for ‘responsible filmmaking’, which not only saves money on production but also helps protect the environment.
“Filmmaking is an electricity dependent medium, and the film industry is one of the biggest consumers of electricity,” Pandey said.
He also said that many filmmakers use very irresponsible methods while filming. Such as using 40,000 volts to power electrical equipment like lights, ACs, sound recorders, etc. thus consuming large amounts of energy.
Pandey also said that some filmmakers tend to cut down trees or damage natural spaces to suit their scenes for movies. “All this creates intrusion, thus damaging nature,” he said.
Pandey also offered suggestions to usher change. Pandey said that there should be a campaign to sensitize filmmakers and actors about responsible shooting. “They can shoot outdoors in natural light to save expenditure on lighting equipment. Lastly, make sure that they don’t cut trees to accommodate shooting space,” he said.
“There must be an audit check on film production; on the damage caused to nature while shooting, and the amount of energy used. This ‘green audit’ must be included in the budget of the film,” he added. “If you have a control on carbon utilised, you can monetize the film; thus saving on production costs, while simultaneously saving the planet.”