Location

The ephemeral nature of New Zealand’s screen production industry presents particular challenges for the introduction of environmentally responsible practices. One of these challenges is reducing the environmental impacts associated with working on location including special effects that may involve the use of fire, explosives, water and artificial snow. With no fixed office or studio base, it can be difficult for productions to develop and maintain environmental management systems. The suggestions below have been developed to assist screen production companies and professionals in managing their environmental impacts on location.

Special effects

Carry out an environmental impact assessment for the special effect and identify the measures needed to protect the environment including habitats, waterways and stormwater drains.
Put measures in place to contain and collect any materials hazardous to the environment such as fuel, oil, paint, solvents and batteries.
Where possible use compostable or recyclable materials for special effects such as snow and contain the area so that the materials can be recovered.
Many of the rubbers, resins and solvents used to create special effects are toxic materials. Realistic special effects can be created using environmentally preferable materials e.g. based on silicone. Silicone sets at room temperature thus saving electricity; it has low flammability and no adverse health effects. However, it does not break down easily.
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