The main objective of HBO's True Detective: Night Country was to embed environmentally conscious practices at every stage of the production process, setting a new industry standard for green filmmaking. By adhering to the HBO Green sustainable production program, TDNC aimed to significantly reduce its carbon footprint, engage with local communities and inspire both the industry and audiences to consider the environmental impact of filmmaking. Our goals were to minimize reliance on fossil fuels, promote the use of renewable energy, implement circular material use, reduce waste, and incorporate climate-related themes into the storyline of the show. Ultimately, TDNC sought not only to produce an engaging series but also to create a ripple effect of sustainable practices within the industry and beyond.
With a focus on sustainability, the production team implemented a comprehensive strategy that touched every aspect of the filmmaking process. From transportation and energy use to material sourcing and waste management, each decision was made with the environmental impact in mind. Fuel: The Transportation Department hired over 40 electric vehicles for crew and offered charging from the main base. Throughout production, ~15,000 liters of fuel were negated through charging. Energy: Filming in Iceland, TDNC took advantage of their 100% renewable energy grid, intentionally avoiding fuel generator use as much as possible. It took a great deal of planning to manage the power requirements from a HETV production efficiently. On location and at studio crew parking, a new-to-Iceland electric battery unit was used to reduce the run time of diesel generators. In total, 75.7% of all power came from renewable energy sources. The carbon footprint from Icelandic renewable energy is approximately 3000% lower than power from diesel generators. Without this pre-planning, the carbon footprint for the production would have been significantly higher. Materials: Props and set decorations were largely purchased 2nd hand. The Senior Set Decorator negotiated a 50% buyback for all charity shop purchases so that all materials were used in a circular approach, and everything went back to the shops for future sale. The Construction Department purchased Nordic Swan-certified construction materials and recycled materials across different sets. Instead of using difficult-to-recycle materials such as polystyrene, the construction team crafted snowy landscapes utilizing reusable fabrics. Waste: Great care was taken to communicate waste management on the production and use reusable items. The Catering team offered reusable plates and cutlery as standard and only offered a disposable takeaway option when truly needed. The crew embraced the waste management plan by even washing up aluminum trays so that they could be properly recycled. Community: TDNC worked with predominantly local crews cutting down the carbon emissions for flights and hotels while investing heavily in the local economy. By working with local crews throughout the chain of command, TDNC helped give valuable experience and training to a developing industry. In addition to this, the crew donated approximately $10,750 estimated value of supplies, materials and food to local charities, schools and organizations. Sustainability-forward Marketing Seeding Kits for Influencers: Custom seeding kits were created to mirror the production’s central theme of sustainability, and a conscious effort was made to incorporate partners committed to sustainable practices and products. The kits’ contents were made up of items such as Smartwool socks (94% of their products are made with renewable and recycled materials), Contrado Blankets (Sustainable, end-to-end production), and Patagonia Provisions (Regenerative Organic Agriculture Methods + Protective of the Alaskan Wilderness). Throughout the production, challenges such as the logistical complexities of managing electric vehicle fleets in remote areas and ensuring the availability of renewable energy were met with innovative solutions. These efforts showcase how TDNC didn’t just follow sustainable practices but innovated within them, creating a model for future productions.
By implementing environmentally conscious practices, the production reduced its carbon footprint significantly, avoiding over 35 tons of CO2 emissions using electric vehicles and renewable energy alone. The circular approach to material sourcing and waste management set a new benchmark for the industry, with extensive use of second-hand and recycled materials, and an effective waste management strategy that minimized landfill contributions. Beyond the environmental metrics, the production made a meaningful impact on the local community by employing local crews, thereby reducing travel-related emissions and contributing to the local economy. The $10,750 worth of donated supplies and materials further underscored the production’s commitment to social responsibility. TDNC’s integration of climate-related themes resonated with global audiences, sparking conversations about environmental issues. This holistic approach to sustainability earned TDNC a Global Production Award for Sustainable Production and a NAB Excellence in Sustainability Award for Green Production Practices.
