Locations

FUEL

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• Scout locations digitally first — use digital platforms such as video calls, virtual tours, and photos to minimise unnecessary travel.

• When travelling for site visits, carpool with other departments (Production, Art, etc.).

• Hire electric or hybrid vehicles for scouting, location moves, and on-set transport.

• Plan routes efficiently to reduce travel time and fuel use between multiple sites.

• Use local crew and suppliers rather than flying or driving people long distances.

• Eliminate vehicle idling on set and in base camp — include it in crew briefings and call sheets.

• Install solar or battery charging units at the location to reduce diesel generator dependency.

• Use electric buggies or bicycles for short-distance on-set transport instead of petrol carts.

• Coordinate with production to share transport resources (e.g., vans, shuttles, trucks).

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ENERGY

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• Power base camp and unit areas with solar or hybrid generators where possible.

• Coordinate power distribution between departments to avoid over-supplying or doubling up on generators.

• Use energy-efficient lighting and equipment in offices and green rooms.

• Switch off appliances and lights in unused rooms or at wrap each day.

• Keep office and location temperatures within efficient ranges:

  • Summer: 22–24°C

  • Winter: 21–23°C

• Use LED lights for security, path, and unit base lighting.

• Install motion sensors or timers for outdoor lights and facilities.

• Source renewable electricity if the location has access to grid power.

• Provide battery charging stations powered by solar or hybrid units for departments using small electronics (radio transmittors, tablets, etc.).

• Track and record energy use for sustainability reporting and future improvement.

 

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Local Sustainability Policies

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Local governments have sustainability regulations for filming in many areas, such as waste management policies, noise restrictions, or guidelines for protecting local wildlife and natural resources. The locations team should ensure compliance with these laws to avoid penalties and minimise the production’s impact on the location.​​​​​​​

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When negotiating permits, the locations department can work with local authorities to ensure responsible production practices, such as managing waste on set, using minimal resources, and adhering to noise regulations that limit disruptions to local communities.

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• Australian Capital Territory —Screen Canberra

• New South Wales—Screen NSW

• Northern Territory—Screen Territory

• Queensland—Screen Queensland

• South Australia—South Australian Film Corporation

• Tasmania—Screen Tasmania

• Victoria—Film Victoria

• Western Australia—ScreenWest​

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• Engage with the local community. When filming in specific towns or regions, ensure that the production has a positive economic impact by hiring local people, supporting local businesses, and providing exposure to the location. Additionally, giving back to the local community through charitable donations, or support, can align with broader sustainability goals.

 

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Waste Reduction & Recycling

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• Work with the Sustainability Officer to ensure recycling, compost, and landfill bins are available and clearly labelled.

• Provide e-waste bins for batteries, cables, and electronic accessories.

• Reuse signage, marquees, and directional materials from previous shoots — avoid printing new ones each time.

• Laminate and reuse durable signs or switch to digital call sheets and maps.

• Use reusable cable ties and clips instead of single-use plastic ones.

• Source second-hand or reusable location furniture (tables, chairs, bins) from local charity shops.

• Choose biodegradable catering supplies for location craft stations.

• Encourage all crew to bring reusable water bottles, cups.

• After filming, the locations department is responsible for restoring  the location to  the original state, if not better. This includes proper waste disposal and ensuring that any temporary structures, signage, or equipment are removed, recycled, or repurposed.​​

• Click here to find sustainable recycling centres throughout Australia​​

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