Your guide to creating world-changing content - Planet Placement
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Your guide to creating world-changing content This guide has been produced by albert, the leading UK environmental sustainability initiative for the visual arts and Futerra.
Contents
1.0 Why Planet Placement? .............................. 3 3.0 How to do it? .............................................. 24 5.0 Case Studies ...............................................46
1.1 Overview......................................................... 4 3.1 Overview ...................................................... 25 5.1 Overview ...................................................... 47
3.2 As a writer ................................................... 26 5.2 Factual entertainment .............................48
3.3 As a scripted producer ............................. 28 5.3 Specialist factual ........................................50
3.4 As a non-scripted developer ....................30 5.4 Scripted drama .......................................... 52
3.5 As a Commissioning editor ...................... 32 5.5 Continuing drama ......................................54
3.6 As a Non-scripted producer ....................34 5.6 Non-scripted comedy/satire .................... 55
5.7 Sports programming ................................. 56
5.8 Children’s programming ........................... 57
2.0 What to do? ................................................... 7 4.0 Ideas............................................................. 42 6.0 FAQ’s ............................................................ 58
2.1 Overview ........................................................ 8 4.1 Overview ......................................................43
2.2 Raise the issues ............................................ 9 4.2 Get Inspired ................................................44
1.3 Show the actions .........................................17
1.0 Why Planet Placement?
1.1 Imagine a TV and film industry that’s more relevant than ever.
Imagine creating content that
Millions of school students around the world protest climate change
and call for action (2019)
sets the cultural agenda in a rapidly
evolving entertainment landscape.
Content that helps you connect
with and grow new audiences.
Want in?
Bring the planet into But it’s not just in surveys that young
your programming. people are telling the world how much
they care. In the recent school strikes,
Sustainability and climate change are masses of young people globally took to
rising up the agenda. They’re no longer the streets to protest the lack of action
confined to the science sections of our being taken on climate change.
news websites. It’s something that new
audiences—especially millennials and Environmental issues are the stories
Gen Zs—care deeply about. of this generation. We’re calling on you
to tell those stories.
In a recent survey, nearly half of all
young people ranked climate change and The screen industries have a crucial
the destruction of nature as the most role to play in solving climate change.
serious issue affecting the world today, Reducing the footprint of productions
more pressing than war or inequality is important. But, by far, the greatest
(World Economic Forum, 2017). It’s also opportunity to make an impact is
something that’s keeping them up at through the content we put on screen.
night. 62% of young Britons said climate Collectively, our industry reaches
change made them fearful for the future millions of people every single day.
(Broadbent et al. 2017). And, from sharing That represents an unprecedented
rides to renting goods, young people opportunity to shift mindsets and
are actively trying to find new ways to make positive environmental behaviours
deal with today’s environmental reality mainstream. It’s a chance to shape
(Euromonitor International, 2018). society’s response to climate change.
5
0 %
This is your opportunity— Whether you’re a writer, a producer Shaping society’s response to the Nearly 5 ke
e chang
d climat he most
e
and you’ve done it before. or commissioning editor, Planet environmental crisis is an exciting creative ple ra n t
ung peo ature as
Placement is here to provide inspiration challenge like no other. But creativity of all yo estruction of n world today,
h e d g t h e
and t ectin ality
We’ve already seen how powerful TV and practical guidance on how to do always wins. So, let’s grab the opportunity issue aff or inequ
serious ssing than war 017)
and film can be in embedding positive e 2
it successfully. Take a look at the to tap into the zeitgeist and reimagine the more pr onomic Forum,
c
behaviours and inspiring new ways of latest environmental trends—from role of TV and film in paving the way to (World E
seeing the world. In the 80s and 90s the fracking to food crazes—to fuel new a better world.
term “designated driver” made it into stories. Explore examples of how other
hundreds of primetime TV shows helping TV shows and films have embedded
to normalise the behaviour across the environmental sustainability for
US and reduce drunk driving fatalities. inspiration. And discover all of the tactics
And with the rise of purpose-driven and opportunities at your disposal,
programming today, we’re seeing how whatever your role, whatever your genre.
those at the cutting-edge are tapping
into the drama of a changing world and And don’t worry. We’re not asking you
engaging audiences in new ways. to be earnest or educational, to scare
people into taking action, or to create
By creating content that normalises the type of content you’d expect from
sustainable behaviours and helps people
better understand and connect with
an NGO. We’re asking you to be fun,
humorous and witty. To tell stories 62%
the world we all depend on, you have that capture the energy, innovation of young Bri
the chance to tell new stories and reach change mad tons said climate
and solutions that are happening all future (Bro
e them fear
ful for the
younger audiences in meaningful new ad
around us. We’re asking you to tell However, fr bent et al. (2017).
om sharing
ways. You’ll be reflecting the reality fascinating stories in a human way renting good
s, young pe
rides to
are actively ople today
of the world right now. And you’ll be —like you always do. trying to fin
ways to deal d new
changing the world for the better. wit
the world to h the realities of
day. (Eurom
Internationa onitor
l, 2018)
6
2.0 What to do
2.1
There are two
ways you can embed
environmental
sustainability
into your content
Raise the issues Show the actions
You can inspire your audiences by raising You can normalise sustainable
the issues facing our environment and behaviours on screen.
spreading information and knowledge
that could rouse them to take action.
8
2.2
Raise the issues:
Tap into the drama and conflict,
the interesting characters and
the unlikely heroes. Here are the
latest environmental trends to
fuel your stories.
By raising the issues you find
here, you’ll be creating cutting-
edge relevant content that helps
people better understand the
world around them.
9
Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Climate catastrophe Climate optimism
A heating planet and a ticking clock mean the pressure’s on The backlash against fatalism is putting hope in
to avoid irreversible, globally catastrophic climate change. the spotlight.
1. A
new report by the UN 3. The number of extreme 1. For the first time in history, 4. Solutions are underway.
Intergovernmental Panel on heatwaves in Europe has risen we have global alignment on The energy revolution now
Climate Change warns that we since 1950, leading to hundreds of the climate challenge. In 2015, seems unstoppable. Many
have only 12 years to act if we are premature deaths in the UK alone. 200 countries signed The nations, including the UK, are on
to avoid truly catastrophic global And the intensity and frequency of Paris Agreement to limit global the way to a renewable future.
climate change. (source) extreme temperatures is forecast warming to well below 2 degrees (source)
to increase. (source) above pre-industrial times.
2. But it’s not just a distant threat, 5. Despite doom-mongering,
the impacts of climate change are 4. The rest of the world is watching 2. We also have the scientific the human propensity for hope
being felt closer to home—across in horrified fascination: ‘doom roadmap of how we need to get prevails. Most of us believe
the globe natural disasters are porn’ is totally in right now. there. In 2017 The Stockholm it’s not too late to act: 95% of
getting worse and more frequent. (source) Resilience Centre published the climate experts and 64% of
(source) Carbon law—a model for how the ordinary people believe we
to reach the Paris Agreement. can solve the climate challenge.
(source)
3. We know what we need to do.
Project Drawdown lists out
the 100 solutions scientifically-
calculated to make it happen.
(source)
10Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Hungry planet A taste for change
One planet and billions more people to feed. Despite this growing In the West, our relationship to food is changing for the better
demand, climate change and land conversion are putting the —driven largely by health concerns. Will this new approach to
future of our food supply at risk. eating go global?
1. Western-style meat habits are 3. Illegal and unsustainable fishing 1. One in eight Brits—or almost 3. The obsession with protein is
going global. The increase in practices are pushing some 13% of the population – is now driving new exciting innovation.
livestock farming to meet demand marine ecosystems to the brink vegetarian or vegan, with a Insect snack bars and lab-grown
is putting a heavy strain on of collapse. (source) further 21% identifying as burgers are reinventing protein
the land, water and the climate. ‘flexitarian’. Clearly planet- for good. (source)
4. As Lester Brown, the author of
(source) friendly diets are no fad. (source)
Full Planet, Empty Plate put it, 4. People are taking an interest
2. Deserts are forming where crops “Food is the new oil and land is the 2. We’re moving beyond tofu and in how and where their food is
once grew. And with continuing new gold”. (source) Yet, here in the seeing many more plant-based produced. The UK market for
climate change, this is only going UK, food is going straight from meat alternatives on the menu. organic produce has experienced
to get worse. (source) our shopping baskets to our bins. (source) six years of steady growth, and
(source) is now worth £2.2 billion. Locally-
sourced produce has become
a mark of quality and green-
fingered foodies are reviving
the vegetable patch. (source)
(source)
11Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Trash is taking over Landfill no more
Our current take-make-waste economy is costing us the earth, Collins Dictionary named “single-use” the word of 2018,
and our health. which reflects the increasing global awareness about waste.
An awareness which is turning into action.
1. The world cranks out more than 4. While recycling in the UK is up 1. In response to the ocean plastic 3. Sustainability, and specifically
300 million tons of plastic each overall, half of local authorities crisis, the European Government circularity, has taken over the
year. More than 40 percent is recycled a lower proportion of voted for a complete ban on fashion landscape, and eco pilot
used once, sometimes for less household waste in 2016/17 than plastic cutlery and plates, cotton projects are beginning to scale.
than a minute, and discarded. in 2011/12. (source) (source) buds, straws, drink-stirrers and 2018 saw the launch of ReGain,
(source) balloon sticks by 2021. (source) the first clothing return app,
5. This disposable culture has taken
diverting old, unwanted clothes
2. 8 million metric tonnes of plastic over every aspect of our lives. 2. Straws are out and reusables are
from landfill. (source) (source)
waste enters our oceans annually Fast fashion is another big culprit becoming mainstream. Reusable
—disrupting sensitive ecosystems in the waste epidemic. Currently water bottles and coffee cups 4. With the rise of the sharing
and endangering marine life. If this in the UK, we’re chucking out a have become status symbols. economy, we’re finding new uses
continues, there could be more staggering £140 million worth of (source) for old, unwanted stuff. (source)
plastic than fish in the ocean by unworn clothes a year. (source)
2050. (source)
6. We’re now ingesting pollution. In
3. We’re running out of landfills. a recent global study, 83 percent
China’s crackdown on importing of tap water samples worldwide
recycling from other countries is tested positive for microscopic
causing plastic to stockpile around plastic fibres. (source)
the globe. (source)
12Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Disappearing worlds Nature’s great comeback
A “biological annihilation” of wildlife in recent decades signals the We’re bringing nature back into balance.
sixth mass extinction event in the last half billion years of Earth’s
history—and it’s more severe than previously feared.
1. In just the last 40 years, we’ve 4. Wildlife crime is big business, and 1. Conservation, restoration, and improved 4. In just over a decade the rights-of-
lost half of the world’s wild animal it’s getting bigger. The world is land management could deliver more nature movement has grown from
population. The culprit? Habitat dealing with an unprecedented than a third of the emission reductions one law adopted in a small community
destruction, overexploitation and spike in illegal wildlife trade, we need to hit the Paris Agreement in the US to a movement which has
climate change combined. (source) threatening to overturn decades targets— as much as ceasing the seen countries enact laws recognising
of conservation gains. (source) burning of oil annually. (source) the rights of nature. The emerging
2. Tropical Forests once covered
movement aims to give our rivers,
12% of the world’s landmass and 5. Pollution, habitat changes, overuse 2. Projects promoting ‘natural climate
mountains and forests legal rights.
today, they cover just 5%. That’s of pesticides, and global warming solutions’ are underway. From North
(source)
because in places like the Amazon, have ignited an insect apocalypse. America to Indonesia, natural lands
we’ve taken to burning down And as insects are the pollinators are finally getting the help they need to 5. In Britain, a re-wilded countryside is
forests to make way for cattle. of our food crops, it’s a decline support life on earth. (source) bringing back biodiversity. (source)
(source) that could have big consequences. And it’s not just in the countryside.
3. Tourist destinations are taking a stand
(source) Urban rewilding is helping people in
3. Man-made global warming is for the natural world. The island nation
cities to connect with the natural world.
wreaking havoc on our oceans. of Palau introduced the Palau pledge—
Completed in 2017, Walthamstow
Warmer temperatures are killing an award—winning tourism campaign
Wetlands in London is now Europe’s
off the world’s coral. (source) to encourage responsible tourism that
largest urban wetland reserve, spanning
was so successful it became an official
211 hectares. (source)
entry requirement to the island. Other
tourism hotspots are now considering 6. Consumers are becoming more aware
similar strategies. (source) of their impact on the planet. Public
interest in palm oil reached a 15-year
high in 2018, after Iceland’s Greenpeace-
produced Christmas ad was banned
from television. (source)
13Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Urban ills Healthy cities
Most of us are choking on toxic air. The fight for clean air is underway, helping urban
dwellers prosper and our climate recover.
1. 54% of people worldwide now live 4. London’s air pollution levels keep 1. As our nations’ leaders quarrel 4. The amount of people cycling
in cities, up from 30% in 1950. This breaking the law. In 2018 London over climate change, local in Britain is up 23% in 10 years.
is estimated to grow to two thirds hit its annual air quality limit as governments are taking matters (source)
of the world population in the next early as January. (source) into their own hands. C40 Cities
5. People are getting wise to poor-
15-30 years. is an initiative that connects 96
5. The death of a nine-year-old girl air quality. Some are opting for
of the world’s greatest cities to
2. Currently 92% of the world’s in London in 2013, was recently masks whilst commuting, others
take bold climate action, leading
population live in places where attributed to air pollution – the are avoiding unhealthy air with
the way towards a healthier and
air quality levels exceed WHO’s first time in history a direct link tracking apps and personalised
more sustainable future. (source)
Ambient Air quality guidelines for has been made. devices. Many people now use
what’s considered safe. And with 2. Many of these cities, including anti-pollution skincare products.
rapid urbanization, that’s set to London, are shifting away from And even the humble houseplant
increase. (source) petrol and diesel cars, in favour has been rebranded as an air-
of ultra-low emissions zones cleaning ally. (source)
3. According to a government report
or complete pedestrianisation.
published in 2018, poor air quality
(source) (source)
has been classified as the largest
environmental risk to public health 3. In Britain, sales of diesel
in the UK. vehicles fell by a quarter in
2018, in part due to these
new pollution charges. And
government grants continue to
fuel the rise in electric and hybrid
vehicle ownership. (source)
14Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Resource strain Mindful living
Population growth, extractive technologies and consumer We’re being more careful about what we use
demand are putting unprecedented pressure on finite and and how we buy.
sensitive natural resources.
1. Since 1970, the world has been The UN warns of conflict and 1. In the face of new challenges, 3. Experience beats stuff.
in ecological deficit. At present, civilisational threats unless actions people around the world are Younger generations reportedly
1.7 Earth planets are needed are taken to reduce the stress on adapting and collaborating to live place more importance on
to support humanity’s annual rivers, lakes, aquifers, wetlands more sustainably. In 2018, during experiences than they do on
demand on the ecosystem. In and reservoirs. (source) the worst drought in its history, material possessions – as
2018, Earth Overshoot Day was on the citizens of Cape Town in evidenced by the boom in the
4. According to the Greater London
August 1st (since 2001, it is moving South Africa cut their combined experience economy. (source)
Authority, the city is pushing
on average three days earlier per water usage in half, with
close to capacity and is likely to 4. From “conscious consumerism”
year). (source) (source) unprecedented speed. (source)
have supply problems by 2025 to minimalism, we’re reassessing
2. The continued search for oil, and “serious shortages” by 2. Public support for the use of the consumer habits that have
gas and minerals is pushing 2040. (source) renewable energy in the UK is come to define us. Lifestyle
exploration into more technically at an all-time high at 85%. Two philosophies characterised by
5. We’re living on borrowed water.
challenging and environmentally in three people said they would moderation, consideration and
The average UK consumer uses
sensitive areas. In 2018 the be happy to have a large-scale purpose are sweeping the West.
3,500 litres of water a day. Only
Trump administration withdrew renewable development in their (source)
150 litres in direct use, the rest is
measures to protect the Arctic area. (source)
virtual water – the water it takes
from highly dangerous drilling.
to produce foods and manufacture
3. Water shortages are expected to consumer goods. These products
affect 5 billion people by 2050 due are often produced in countries
to climate change. already at risk from drought
or water stress.
15Brutal truth: Beautiful possibility:
Environmental discrimination Collective action
Climate change won’t impact everyone in the same way. People are piling on the pressure for planet-friendly
decision making.
1. Globally, the wealthiest 10% of 3. The World Bank has warned that 1. In 2015, the UN updated the The pioneering lawsuit has won
people may be responsible for without urgent global and national Millennium Development Goals the right to a trial, overcoming
more than 50% of emissions, yet climate action, Sub-Saharan to incorporate environmental the Trump administration’s
the most severe impacts of global Africa, South Asia and Latin sustainability. The resulting efforts to cancel it in court.
warming will be felt by the poor- America could see more than 140 Sustainable Development (source)
people who are more likely to live million climate refugees by 2050. Goals, or SDGs, mark the first
3. Unlikely allies are emerging in
in areas exposed to environmental (source) time in history the world’s
the fight for a more sustainable
hazards, like flood plains, and governments have agreed that
4. Governments need to take radical future. In 2015 Pope Francis
whose homes may also lack basic continued human development
short-term action to mitigate called on the world’s 1.2 billion
infrastructure, such as drains to is dependent on thriving natural
climate disruption, but with the Catholics to join the fight
safely carry away storm-water. ecosystems. (source)
rise of right-wing populism in many against climate change. The
(source)
countries, such action would prove 2. Young people are mobilizing Pope declared that the science
2. Women commonly face higher to be an electorally unpopular to protect the environment. of climate change is clear and
risks and greater burdens from move. (source) Thousands of schoolchildren that the Catholic Church views
the impacts of climate change. across Australia walked out of climate change as a moral issue
5. The British public is divided over
Women’s unequal participation in class in 2018 to demand action that must be addressed. (source)
climate change. 71% of Remain
decision-making processes and by the federal government on
voters think that climate change 4. The same year, 50,000 people in
labour markets compound this climate change. (source) Whilst
is definitely happening, in stark London, and 600,000 worldwide,
inequality, preventing them from 21 kids in the US continue to
contrast to 53% of Leave voters. attended the People’s Climate
contributing to solutions. (source) make international headlines
A generational difference in March, the biggest public
in their attempt to sue the US
attitudes is also reflected in the demonstration in history calling
government over climate change.
fact that younger age groups are for bold and urgent action to
more likely to be worried about address global warming. (source)
climate change. (source)
162.3
Show the actions:
Here are the mindsets, behaviours
and actions the public need to
take in order to make a more
sustainable future possible.
These are based on the Good Life
Goals, everyday actions that anyone
around the world can take to make
the UN’s Sustainable Development
Goals happen. The actions here have
been tailored for a UK-specific audience.
172.4
Eat well
Changing what and how we eat is one of
the biggest ways to lower greenhouse gas
emissions globally. Normalise these conscious
eating habits though your content and you’ll
have audiences changing the world, starting
at breakfast.
The Great British Bake Off—vegan week (2018)
The baking competition hosted its very first vegan week. The baked creations were judged on great taste
and presentation, as always. Who says vegan food can’t do it all?
1. 2. 3.
Understand the impact of food Eat more plants and cut down Choose sustainable seafood
choices on the planet. on meat Sustainably sourced seafood protects
Changing what and how we eat is one of Farming animals generates a massive fish stocks for the future.
the biggest ways to lower greenhouse gas amount of greenhouse gas emissions.
emissions globally. So eating minimal meat is not only better
for your body, it’s better for the planet.
4. 5.
Buy local and seasonal food Waste less food and use leftovers
Buying local can drastically decrease the Food waste creates a lot of our human-
carbon footprint of our food by reducing caused greenhouse gas emissions as the
the distance it has to travel. good food that goes to landfill releases
methane—a gas even more potent than
carbon dioxide.
182.5
Travel better
There’s no denying the impact of travel on climate
change. In fact, tourism contributes to 8% of global
greenhouse gas emissions around the world. Show your
audience how to combat this by embedding some of
these positive travel options in your content.
Pete Versus Life, Season 1 – Episode 1 (2010)
The episode makes a good point of showing the different actions people can take to better the earth.
1. 2. 3.
Understand the environmental Walk, cycle or use public If driving, car share or opt for
impact of transportation transport instead of driving. electric or hybrid cars
Transport burns most of the world’s Cycling or walking improves our health Fewer petrol or diesel cars on the roads
petroleum which, in turn, creates toxic and the health of our planet. means less pollution in our atmosphere.
air pollution.
4.
For long distance travel, where
possible take the train over
a plane. If you have to fly, buy
carbon offsets.
Using trains over planes consumes less
natural resources, reduces air pollution
and harmful ozone levels.
192.6
Buy better
The stuff we buy - from food to clothes—is responsible
for most of the world’s land, material and water usage.
The best way to deal with this is to buy less and buy
better. Show these conscious buying habits in your
content and introduce your audience to a better
way of shopping.
Stacey Dooley Investigates: Fashion’s Dirty Secrets (2018)
Stacey Dooley investigates the damaging environmental impact caused by the world’s insatiable appetite
for cheap clothing.
1. 2. 3.
Collect friends and experiences, Share, reuse, repair, and recycle. Ask who made the products you
not just things. These actions save natural resources buy, what are they made of, and
Reducing consumption reduces the such as timber, water and minerals used how were they made.
stress on the world’s natural resources. to make products while reducing the The more people who ask where their
amount of waste going to landfill. products come from, the more brands
will be held accountable and improve
their practices.
4.
Save, borrow and invest
responsibly.
Money talks. People can put their
money into banks that support
greener initiatives.
202.7
Be resourceful
Save energy, save money, save the planet. The less power
we consume, the less fumes are emitted into the air by
power plants. Show your audiences the actions they can
take to make this happen.
Ex on The Beach (2018)
The MTV show dating show kitted out the villa with a commendable number of solar panels.
1. 2. 3.
Report and fix leaks—big or small Save water when washing, Save energy wherever you can—
As well as wasting a source of energy, gas cleaning and brushing your teeth. turn off lights, unplug appliances
leaks – mostly methane – contribute to Using water-saving techniques not only The less power we consume, the less
the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. saves money, it saves energy and also fumes are emitted into the air by
conserves water in our rivers and bays. power plants.
4. 5.
Wash your clothes less, Switch to renewable energy for
on shorter cycles and at heat, electricity, and gas.
lower temperature. Renewable energy produces less pollution
This helps save water and energy. which keeps air and water clean.
212.8
Waste less
A great way to drastically reduce carbon emissions
is by doing the same with our waste. When we waste
a product, we also waste all the energy that goes into
producing it. Normalise these actions in your content
to show your audience a better way of living.
Hugh’s War on Waste (2015)
Hugh challenged supermarkets and the fast food industry to drastically reduce the amount of stuff they
throw away.
1. 2. 3.
Reduce, reuse and recycle to Don’t litter – cigarette butts and Say no to unnecessary plastic
limit the amount of waste to chewing gum included. and use reusables over single-use
landfill (and oceans). Rubbish disposed incorrectly can end up whenever possible.
Overcrowded landfills release toxic into the waterways which poses a threat 8 million metric tonnes of plastic waste
greenhouse gases such as methane to marine life. enters our oceans annually.
into the atmosphere.
4.
Don’t flush any rubbish or
toxic chemicals down the
drain or toilet.
These chemicals can be harmful to
wildlife and marine life.
222.9
Love nature
When it comes to combatting climate change, nature
is our best ally. Trees and plants keep oxygen in the air
and carbon out. Show your audience what they can do
to protect these gifts.
Black Mirror S3 E6 - Hated in the Nation (2016)
The episode does a great job of pointing out the irreplaceable role of bees in the protection (or in this
case destruction) of our environment.
1. 2. 3.
Discover the wonders of the Protect trees, wildlife and Vote for leaders who support
natural world all around. natural spaces. environmental protection
Experiencing the wonders of the natural Letting Mother Nature do her job is and action.
world forges a stronger relationship one of the best solutions we have for Putting leaders in place who value nature
between nature and people. climate change. can lead to policy decisions that protect
the environment.
4.
Defend natural resources
—air, water and land—and
everyone’s right to benefit
from them equally.
The most severe impacts of global
warming will be felt by the poor.
233.0 How to do it
3.1
Ready for a new era for
TV and film? Discover
all of the things you can
do – whatever your role,
whatever your genre
– to bring the planet
into programming.
253.2
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a writer
You create twisting plots, build complex characters
and tell stories that stay with people for life. As a writer,
you are the best person to tell the never-ending tale
of the world around us. How it works, how it’s changing
and how we, together, can keep it in balance.
Here are some of the ways you could weave
environmental sustainability into your stories.
26Reference it creatively Use it to develop characters Build it into your narrative Ask yourself:
It could be a reference to the natural You can use environmental sustainability From protests to paper straws, more does it pass The Planet Test?
world, like the stars in the sky, or lack as a way to distinguish and define and more people, especially millennials A TV programme or Film would
thereof (think pollution). Or maybe, it’s your characters in an interesting, and Gen Zs, are now demonstrating only pass The Planet Test if:
your character borrowing an outfit from contemporary way. Show compassion and their commitment to the environment
a friend rather than buying a new one . openness through actions or concerns (see Taking Back Power – link to trends). 1. It acknowledges the natural world
Either way, just acknowledge the natural about the environment. Or show greed Create content that speaks to this actually exists
world in your script. It doesn’t have to and carelessness through a disregard new and growing audience by building 2. Negative environmental
take centre stage or be an entire story of it. You could use environmentalism environmental sustainability into your behaviours are shown as negative
about climate change. The important to add conflict to a seemingly villainous programme narrative. You could write an character traits
thing is just to reference the environment character by making them sensitive to exciting plot around the environmental 3. One person does something at
in a way that doesn’t disrupt your story. the world around them. crisis or uncover an inspiring story about least once to make the world a
the people who are creating brand new better place
climate solutions.
But remember…
Environmental sustainability issues are
the stories of the 21st century with
content opportunities like no other.
They’re full of drama, conflict, compelling
characters and controversies. However,
some environmental-themed content
falls at the first hurdle because it doesn’t
meet the criteria for great, entertaining
content. When you’re creating purposeful
content, don’t let it distract you from
what you do best: telling a good story.
273.3
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a scripted producer
As the producer, you set the stage for great TV. In your
position at the helm of the production, you make sure
your creative teams produce ground-breaking content
that cuts through the noise.
Here are some of the ways you could produce content
that’s in tune with the times.
28Get your creative Stop it from hitting the cutting Take it beyond the screen Ask yourself:
department involved room floor Once you’ve done the work to get does it pass The Planet Test?
Tell your teams about the necessity Make sure that environmental messages environmental sustainability on screen, A TV programme or Film would
and importance of environmental and positive behaviours get from script find ways to extend the conversation only pass The Planet Test if:
sustainability in your production. to screen. Start by letting your team afterwards. When it comes to your digital
marketing, you could create a social 1. It acknowledges the natural world
This is a new way to approach content know the significance and be sure to
media campaign that promotes positive actually exists
creation and therefore needs a defend its inclusion to critical editors.
environmental behaviours. Or provide 2. Negative environmental
coordinated approach across all It can be as simple as sharing content
merchandise that helps people live more behaviours are shown as negative
creative departments. So, make sure from this site or even organising a team
sustainably. Think reusable coffee cups character traits
everyone from set design to the costume briefing with external climate experts
and refillable water bottles. 3. One person does something at
department understands your vision to bring everyone up to speed (albert
least once to make the world a
and the benefits of purpose-driven can help you with that). And then it’s
But remember… better place
programming. Once everyone is aligned, about making sure that at crucial stages
brief your creative department and of the project, the message is still Environmental sustainability issues
continually motivate them to find the there. Do whatever it takes to champion are the stories of the 21st century
best ways to make sure it happens. environmental sustainability and with content opportunities like no other.
convince doubters of its relevance. They’re full of drama, conflict, compelling
characters and controversies. However,
Could you include more sustainable
some environmental-themed content
alternatives, such as electric cars?
falls at the first hurdle because it doesn’t
meet the criteria for great, entertaining
content. When you’re creating purposeful
content, don’t let it distract you from
what you do best: telling a good story.
293.4
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a non-scripted
developer
When working in development, you’re always one step
ahead of on-screen trends. In your position at first
stage in the life of great programming, you have an
opportunity to create refreshingly original content
and a better future for TV and film.
Here are some of the ways environmental sustainability
can help you do this.
30Find ways to incorporate it into Create entire formats On-screen diversity requirements Ask yourself:
existing formats around solutions have led to an increase in viewership does it pass The Planet Test?
across a wide range of broadcasters.
Incorporate environmental sustainability With more people aware of the challenge ITV data shows an increase in BAME A TV programme or Film would
into the on-screen formats people of climate change, more people want viewers, whilst still retaining traditional only pass The Planet Test if:
know and love. Popular panel shows, to make a difference through their own audiences. And after the Paralympics 1. It acknowledges the natural world
gameshows and talk shows are a great actions. So, give audiences the tools in 2012, Channel 4 commissioned a actually exists
opportunity to get an environmental to do so. The answer could be in a new survey showing its positive impact on 2. Negative environmental
message to a wide and varied audience. format that makes solutions accessible. the way that disabled sport was talked behaviours are shown as negative
When filling segments, consider including It could be a new competition that brings about. You have the opportunity to character traits
something on the environment. In a neighbours across the UK together in a do the same through environmental 3. One person does something at
quiz show, you could include a thought- race to create greener communities. Or sustainability. So, in all your treatments least once to make the world a
provoking question about climate change. a fashion show that tells people how to and pitches, include an assessment that better place
Or in a gameshow, you could incorporate upcycle their clothes to keep them from considers how the content contributes
fun, positive environmental actions and landfill. Whatever it may be, show that toward a more sustainable society. It will
tasks. When you have the chance to individuals and communities can take on mean attracting new, environmentally They’re full of drama, conflict, compelling
add an extra feature to your format, climate change in their everyday life. conscious viewers, whilst retaining your characters and controversies. However,
think ‘environment’. current ones. And it will mean that some environmental-themed content
Make it a standard in all falls at the first hurdle because it doesn’t
your content better represents the
treatments and castings contemporary world. meet the criteria for great, entertaining
Just as the industry did with content. When you’re creating purposeful
classification and diversity requirements,
But remember… content, don’t let it distract you from
could you make environmental Environmental sustainability issues are what you do best: telling a good story.
sustainability in television the norm? the stories of the 21st century with
content opportunities like no other.
313.5
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a
April
commissioning editor 1 April
2
$
Apr
il
9 As a guiding force in TV, you have the power to create
content that can move the needle on sustainability.
Every synopsis you read or proposal you request has
the potential to become a defining moment in culture.
Here are some of the opportunities you have to embed
environmental sustainability in your role.
ne
Ju
$ 10
ly
Ju
04
32e
Jun
July 10
04
Understand the implications of Let it out of the factual box Do whatever it takes to champion Ask yourself: does it pass The
everything you show environmental sustainability and convince Planet Test?
Whether you’re commissioning doubters of its relevance.
When commissioning content, think documentaries, soaps, comedies or A TV programme or Film would
carefully about what you are promoting. competitions, make environmental Make it a standard in all only pass The Planet Test if:
Are you popularising negative sustainability a consideration across treatments and castings
all genres and formats. Climate change 1. It acknowledges the natural world
environmental behaviors or positive
is relevant to every single person you Just as the industry did with actually exists
ones? And what might the consequences
create content for, so we need to make classification and diversity requirements, 2. Negative environmental
of that be? By understanding the
sure that environmental sustainability is could you make embedding environmental behaviours are shown as negative
potential impact of everything you put on
accessible to all audiences and reaches as sustainability into programming the character traits
screen, you will be better able to create
many people as possible. To do this, make norm? On-screen diversity requirements 3. One person does something at
content that can both entertain the
sure you don’t fall into the trap of limiting have led to an increase in viewership least once to make the world a
masses and improve the world around us.
it just to factual. across a wide range of broadcasters. better place
ITV data shows an increase in BAME
Ask the industry for it Safeguard its inclusion viewers, whilst still retaining traditional
Put out a call for content that audiences. And after the Paralympics Environmental sustainability issues
Make sure that environmental messages are the stories of the 21st century
acknowledges the natural world. As in 2012, Channel 4 commissioned a
and positive behaviours get from script with content opportunities like
easy as it sounds, not many productions survey showing its positive impact on
to screen. Start by letting your team no other. They’re full of drama,
actually pass the planet test (insert link). the way that disabled sport was talked
know the significance and be sure to conflict, compelling characters
Stories that address such challenges, about. You have the opportunity to
defend its inclusion to over-keen editors. and controversies. However, some
even briefly, have the ability to raise do the same through environmental
It can be as simple as sharing content environmental-themed content
awareness and inspire change. Ask sustainability. It will mean attracting new,
from this site or even, organising a team falls at the first hurdle because it
people to create those stories. environmentally conscious viewers, whilst
briefing with external climate experts to doesn’t meet the criteria for great,
retaining your current ones. It will mean
bring everyone up to speed (albert can entertaining content. When you’re
that your content better represents
help you with that). And then it’s about creating purposeful content, don’t let
the contemporary world. So in all your
making sure that at crucial stages of the it distract you from what you do best:
briefings, treatments and castings, make
project, the message is still there. telling a good story.
environmental sustainability a standard.
Could you include more sustainable
alternatives, such as electric cars? But remember…
333.6
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a non-scripted
producer Genre: Popular factual
February
1234
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7891 6
0
12 13 1 11
41
16 17 1 5
8 19
As the producer, you set the stage for great TV. In your
position at the helm of the production, you have the power
to make sure your creative teams produce ground-breaking
content that cuts through the noise.
Here are some of the ways you can embed environmental
sustainability into popular factual content.
c h
Mar
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34February
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7 8 9 10 11
Include contributors’ Feature issues and solutions as a Take it 12
beyond
13 14the
15 screen Ask yourself: does it pass The Planet
environmental credentials segment or VT Test?
16 done
Once you’ve 17 18the
19work to get
Extend the research on your A segment or VT is a great opportunity environmental sustainability on screen, A TV programme or Film would only
contributors to include what they to enhance programming through find ways to extend the conversation pass The Planet Test if:
have done, or are doing, to better the environmental sustainability. So, in a show beyond it. When it comes to your digital
marketing, you could create a social 1. It acknowledges the natural world
environment. It could be as exciting as about fashion, add a segment on the latest
media campaign that promotes positive actually exists
an unlikely streak of activism, or the sustainable fashion brands or the best way
environmental behaviours. Or provide 2. Negative environmental behaviours
mention of a contestant’s conversion to to upcycle clothing. Or in a cooking show,
merchandise that helps people live more are shown as negative character
veganism. Use this as commentary to add a VT on the importance of sustainably
sustainably. Think organic or recycled traits
help build a better picture of who they sourced ingredients and where to find
cotton T-shirts, reusable coffee cups 3. One person does something at
are while bringing a new message and them or how to prevent food waste and
and refillable water bottles. least once to make the world a better
face to the environmental movement save money.
place
that will hopefully encourage your
audience to join the action. Find the sustainability angle and Use it as a tool to create debate
include it Give a voice to people with varying
Brief contributors to talk about h
degrees of knowledge, from different rc
Ma
Look at events through the lens
their interests in sustainability walks of life, with different opinions
of sustainability and you’ll find the
As well as doing your own research, you unexpected, untold story. From human about solutions (although steer clear
3 45
0
could also let contributors know that migration and natural disasters to the from staunch climate deniers.) It’s with 12 91
you’re interested in their attitudes and cost of household energy, the carbon debate that we can open up the platform 8
7 13
actions on environmental sustainability. imprint of your commute and the price for real, productive dialogue around 12 1
Prompt them to share this with your of your daily flat white, climate change is climate change. 16
audience. It’ll bring a new message and the hidden story not being told. So, find
face to the environmental movement the sustainability angle, and you will be
and hopefully encourage your audience bringing a fresh new take on stories that
to join the action.
78 456
help the public better understand the
12 1 10 11
April
16 1 14 15
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world around them.
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353.7
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a non-scripted
producer Genre: Events
February
1234
5
7891 6
0
12 13 1 11
4 15
16 17 1
8 19
As the producer, you set the stage for great TV. In your
position at the helm of the production, you make sure
your creative teams produce ground-breaking content
that cuts through the noise.
Here are some of the ways you can embed environmental
sustainability into event programming.
c h
Mar
6
3 4 5 11
1 2 9 10 5
7 8 3 14 1 9
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1 2 pril
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1
16
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36February
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7 8 9 10 11
Use an environmental story as a Brief contributors to talk about Include 12
contributors’
13 14 15 Ask yourself:
filler segment Feb
their interests in sustainability environmental
1r ua 16 17 18engagements
19 does it pass The Planet Test?
2 ry in commentary
When writing segments for your show,
78 34
Let contributors know that you’re A TV programme or Film would
could you include an environmental interested in their attitudes 9
12 and 56
actions Extend the research on your only pass The Planet Test if:
message? In coverage of motor racing, 13
on environmental sustainability. 1 0 contributors to include what they
you could add a short insert that Prompt them to share16this 14 your11 1. It acknowledges the natural world
17 with 1 5
have done, or are doing, to better the actually exists
showcases the latest developments in 18
audience. It’ll bring a new message and environment. It could be as exciting as
electrical/hybrid technology. Or for music 19
face to the environmental movement an unlikely streak of activism, or the
2. Negative environmental
behaviours are shown as negative
festival coverage, you might include a and hopefully encourage your mention of a contestant’s conversion character traits
VT about the creative ways festivals audience to join the action. to veganism. Use this as commentary 3. One person does something at
and festival goers are reducing their to help build a better picture of who least once to make the world a
environmental impact. This is a chance they are while bringing a new face to better place
to enhance your programme with an the environmental movement that
environmental message without will encourage your audience to join
making it the main focal point. the action.
rc h
Ma
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373.8
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a non-scripted
producer Genre: Current affairs
February
1234
5
7891 6
0
12 13 1 11
4 15
16 17 1
8 19
As the producer, you set the stage for great TV. In your
position at the helm of the production, you make sure
your creative teams produce ground-breaking content
that cuts through the noise.
Here are some of the ways you can embed environmental
sustainability into event programming.
ch
Mar
4 56
3 11
1 2 9 10 5
7 8 3 14 1 9
12 9 10 6
1 2 pril
16 3 14 11
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1
16
17
1
38Find the environmental angle in Profile climate change facts Include the solutions in Ask yourself:
everything you’re investigating Help make the facts of climate change your editorial does it pass The Planet Test?
Too often, climate change is the hidden accessible and available to everyone. Raising the issues is a crucial step. A TV programme or Film would
story not being told. So, whether There’s a lot of misinformation and But don’t stop there. Let your only pass The Planet Test if:
it’s the policies of opposing political apprehension out there, which real facts audiences know what they can do to
parties or the impact of new buildings can help dispel. Let people know that help. If your programme mentions the 1. It acknowledges the natural world
on neighbouring communities, find the consequences of climate change plastic problem, make sure you also actually exists
the environmental angle in your are real, that they’re close to home, draw attention to reusable bags and 2. Negative environmental
investigations. If you’re investigating and that there are a range of solutions cups, and ways to join movements and behaviours are shown as negative
public domains, such as banks or even that governments, businesses and we as organisations that make change. It’s okay character traits
supermarkets, question how their individuals can act on to improve life on to show the problems, but when people 3. One person does something at
actions better (or worsen) the world earth today. don’t know what they can do about it, it least once to make the world a
around them. And show how, if at all, they can lead to fear and fatalism. So, bring better place
are taking the climate into consideration balance by showing that for every and
through their business. By finding the any issue, there is something heroic that
sustainability angle, you will be bringing each of us can to help solve it.
a fresh new take on stories that help
the public better understand the world
around them something heroic that each
of us can to help solve it.
393.9
How to embed environmental
sustainability as a non-scripted
producer Genre: Entertainment
February
1234
5
7891 6
0 11
12 13 1
41
16 17 1 5
8 19
As the producer, you set the stage for great TV. In your
position at the helm of the production, you make sure
your creative teams produce ground-breaking content
that cuts through the noise.
Here are some of the ways you can embed environmental
sustainability into event programming.
c h
Mar
6
3 4 5 11
1 2 9 10 5
7 8 3 14 1 9
12 9 10 6
1 2 pril
16 3 14 11
78 345
1 1
18 5
12 7 18
A
19
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1
16
17
1
40February
123456
7 8 9 10 11
Use it to develop contestant Understand the implications of Use props,
12 13scripts
14 15 and questions Ask yourself:
back stories everything you show Feb to bring the topic to life does it pass The Planet Test?
1 ru 16 17 18 19
In entertainment, everybody has a back When commissioning content, 2 3think ary Just like anything you include in your A TV programme or Film would
story. And saving the planet is a great 7 4
8 promoting. only pass The Planet Test if:
12 9 10 5 6
carefully about what you are production, environmentalism should
one. Use environmental actions and Are you popularising negative be entertaining. Bring life to the topic
13
14 11
1. It acknowledges the natural world
experiences to build the profiles of your environmental behaviors16 or positive by posing challenging questions that
1 actually exists
contestants. It’s a great opportunity 18 15
ones? And what might the7consequences spark debate and discussion. Also use
2. Negative environmental
to introduce a contestant’s beliefs and of that be? By understanding the19 your props to add to the discussion. If
behaviours are shown as negative
to add dimension in an interesting, potential impact of everything you put your programming focuses on single-use
character traits
contemporary way. And it’ll bring a new on screen, you will be better able to coffee cups, let’s see them in the scene
3. One person does something at
message and face to the environmental create content that can both entertain or better still, show its solution: reusable
least once to make the world a
movement and hopefully encourage the masses and improve the world cups. Bring the topic to life through
better place
your audience to join the action. around us. your visuals.
But remember… However, some environmental-themed
content falls at the first hurdle because ch
Environmental sustainability issues are
it doesn’t meet the criteria for great, Ma
r
the stories of the 21st century with
content opportunities like no other.
entertaining content. When you’re
3 45
They’re full of drama, conflict, compelling
creating purposeful content, don’t let 2 10
it distract you from what you do best: 1 8 9
characters and controversies. 7 13
telling a good story. 2
1 1
16
ril
6
5
Ap
4 11
3 10 15
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7 13 18
12 17
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414.0 Ideas
4.1
With the help of creatives
(including some of 2018’s
Edinburgh’s Ones to
Watch), we’ve lined up
some tactics and ideas
for getting sustainability
onto screen.
434.2
The ideas here show how you might
be able to build on an existing show
or format and also, how you could
create something completely new.
Dive in to get inspired and see if you
can do even better.
Creature Comforts Flight-free travel Local air pollution at Gadget Show
Like Creature Comforts, but with a cast A flight-free travel show where sporting events Like the Gadget Show, a crack team
of comedians giving voice to insects the emphasis is on the journey not Show local air pollution levels on screen explore the latest tech solutions for the
trying to survive industrialisation and the destination. along with the weather stats in the pre- environment. Think impossible burger
climate change. game build-up for big sporting events. and clothes that are made out of CO2.
44Game show segment Hunted Joey Essex Investigates Food Unwrapped
A game show segment in which A slow travel/low-carbon version of An unlikely character at the vanguard of The climate version of Food Unwrapped
contestants have to guess which object Hunted where the fugitives are not the environmental movement asking the exploring the secrets behind our
has a lighter footprint. allowed to travel by plane or car. questions we were all too scared to ask. favourite products. and clothes that
are made out of CO2.
A behind-the-scenes look at what it Danny Dyer goes vegan The Apprentice: something 8 out of 10 Cats
takes to stage a climate protest Who wouldn’t watch that? from nothing Jimmy Carr dishes out climate facts.
Profiling the activists devoting their lives Teams turn waste into a resource.
to the cause.
Top Gear does Eco Week X Factor Environment Week Queer Eye Taskmaster
A showcase of the best in hybrid and Think the Earth Song and Big Yellow Taxi. Focus on mindful living. The show sets a zero wastage challenge.
electric cars.
45You can also read
