FUEL

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• Hire electric or hybrid vehicles for sound transport vans or recording trucks when possible.

• Carpool with other departments (Camera, Grip, or Lighting) to reduce vehicle use.

• Plan equipment deliveries efficiently — combine pickups with other departments to reduce trips.

• Source local sound equipment rentals to avoid long-distance freight and transport emissions.

• Use digital communication and remote sound checks to avoid extra site visits.

• Eliminate idling of sound trucks or vehicles during load-in and recording breaks.

• For location shoots, use battery and solar charging systems to power portable sound equipment instead of small petrol generators.

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ENERGY

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• Use rechargeable batteries for all microphones, transmitters, and recorders instead of disposable ones.

• Set up solar or battery charging hubs to recharge wireless equipment on set.

• Unplug chargers and sound devices when not in use to avoid phantom power draw.

• Share charging stations with Camera or Video departments to reduce duplicate power sources.

• Turn off mixers, recorders, and monitors between takes or during resets.

• Use energy-efficient equipment — modern recorders and wireless systems often consume less power than older units.

• When powering field sound kits, choose lightweight lithium-ion batteries with long charge cycles instead of multiple smaller ones.

• Where available, power sound carts via solar or hybrid power supplies rather than diesel generators.

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Waste Reduction & Recycling

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• Reuse and recycle mic windscreens, foam covers, and lav mounts where possible.

• Replace only worn-out parts (e.g. cables, mounts) instead of full components.

• Label and store cables neatly to prevent damage and premature disposal.

• Use rechargeable AA/AAA batteries and implement a clear rotation system to extend lifespan.

• Recycle spent batteries through approved e-waste programs.

• Avoid single-use cable ties and tape — use Velcro or reusable fasteners instead.

• Buy consumables in bulk to reduce packaging waste.

• Adopt digital sound reports and logs using tablets or laptops rather than printing daily sheets.

• Use digital icloud backups for audio files to minimise the use of physical drives and materials.

• Donate or repurpose older sound gear for training programs, student films, or community organisations.

• Use eco-friendly cleaning products sprays and disinfectants for mics and headsets.

• Encourage the team to bring reusable drink bottles and coffee cups to set.

• Click here to find sustainable recycling centres throughout Australia

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