Green Producing

Climate protection is currently one of the most important topics being discussed on the political stage. But not only there, also in social debates the question of how to live and work more sustainably is becoming more and more important.

Diesel generators, spotlights, fiery special effects, cameras, catering and accommodation for the crew – the production of film and TV productions is not only extremely resource-intensive, there are also numerous sources of emissions of harmful greenhouse gases, such as CO₂, on set. In order to reduce the ecological footprint of its productions, the Viennese Satel Film, one of the country’s leading film production companies, relies on a voluntary commitment. Measures, such as switching to green electricity at the operating facilities used for production, dispensing with diesel generators for studio-based entertainment productions or foregoing domestic and international flights if the corresponding train journey takes less than five hours. In addition, more e- or hybrid cars are to be used and energy-saving LED headlights are to replace conventional light sources.

“We see green producing as the future standard of every film and TV production in Austria. As one of the leading production companies in the country, we want to set a good example and make our projects as sustainable as possible already today. In this way, we fulfil our social responsibility not only in terms of content, but also in terms of ecological implementation. This commitment to standards that are very progressive by international standards is voluntary and not based on legal requirements. We accept the challenge of adapting our actions to the urgently needed ecological changes, because what we do today decides how we live tomorrow,” says Satel Film Managing Director Heinrich Ambrosch.

Productions produced by Satel Film in this way can then be marked with the “green motion” label in the credits or on promotional material. Furthermore, Satel Film is since 2023 a licensee of the “UZ 76” of the Austrian Eco-label for “Green Producing”, which is awarded by the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology (BMK). In order to comply with these guidelines, a “Green Producing” officer has been appointed. The productions are accompanied by external green consultants who are to monitor and implement the specific criteria required.