Angelika Pagitz

Since when has Cine Tirol been involved in the field of sustainable film production?
The first time we came into contact with Green Filming was in 2011 during the Berlinale. Since then, we have been able to participate in industry-specific events, build, expand, and strengthen our „green“ network. In 2020, we fully delved into the topic with our website Green Filming Tirol. However, the term itself had already entered the industry much earlier, for instance, in 2006 when UCLA published an initial study on CO2 emissions in film productions.

How is the environmental awareness in Tirol in general? The numerous natural landscapes almost necessitate protection…
Tirol is rich in natural resources and unique (natural) landscapes, which are also classified into various protection zones, such as Natura2000 areas, nature reserves, landscape protection areas, and quiet zones. Additionally, the Tyrolean Environmental Ombudsman sees itself as an advocate representing the interests of Tyrolean nature and the environment. The Umwelt Verein Tirol also makes a significant contribution by supporting projects and initiatives with the aim of raising awareness for resource conservation, sustainability, and climate protection. They also train waste and environmental consultants at the community level. With the „CLAR – Clean Alpine Region“ project of the Lebensraum Tirol Holding Group, Tyrolean tourism regions are supported in implementing measures in the areas of climate protection, sustainability, and energy, and in evolving into climate-friendly regions. The Convention Bureau Tirol, along with its partners, also places great emphasis on offering a sustainable and responsible package in the meeting industry.

How was the establishment of Green Filming Tirol carried out, and what does it offer?
The key partner on the journey to our website Green Filming Tirol has been and continues to be the LAFC – Lower Austrian Film Commission. In early 2018, LAFC presented an exceptionally remarkable, exemplary, and forward-thinking Green Guide called EVERGREEN PRISMA. To strengthen awareness of sustainable filmmaking in Tirol, we became a member of the „Green Filming Austria“ working group founded by LAFC in 2020. The constructive exchange and interregional collaboration with colleagues remain important, especially in light of the new incentive model for the Austrian film industry with the Green Bonus. Green Filming Tirol aims to provide filmmakers with the best possible information to realize their film projects under sustainable aspects in Tirol. In addition to basic information about Green Filming, interested parties can take a practical look through „Let’s ask…“ and find a listing of sustainable Tyrolean companies in the „Marketplace Tirol“ that can be helpful for film production: from Tyrolean organic cosmetics manufacturers to certified accommodation facilities and regional organic food producers. The database is (unfortunately) not yet complete, but we strive to continually expand it.

How about training opportunities? There is even a distinct profession now, the Green Film Consultant.
The education and training of Tyrolean filmmakers on the topic of Green Filming is a major concern for us. The diverse training opportunities provided by LAFC, offered in collaboration with Philip Gassmann/Green Film Tools as part of the EVERGREEN PRISMA Green Filming Academy, provide Austrian filmmakers with a solid and practical knowledge base. I had the opportunity to complete the training program for Green Film Consultant Austria (GFCA) offered there. While I am not actively working as a GFCA, I can respond and connect accordingly to inquiries that come our way. In Tirol, there are currently two active Green Film Consultants Austria, Jeannette Ziemeck and Heinz Laab. The desire for this number to grow further is, of course, present.

Has the topic of sustainable filmmaking gained widespread acceptance in the Austrian industry? Will the Green Bonus provide an additional attractive stimulus in this regard?
The topic has certainly gained traction in the industry. However, it is crucial to stay engaged, continue constructive dialogue, and collaborate. Only through such efforts can the field grow and evolve. The demand for environmentally friendly power generators or electric vehicles is not yet present in sufficient quantities. There needs to be more providers, especially in these specific areas. This is particularly relevant in light of the Green Bonus incentive model, which will likely further increase the demand.

What role does Green Filming play in the Cine Tirol Production Incentive?
We have integrated Green Filming as a separate point in our current Production Incentive guidelines. We ask applicants in advance to protect Tyrolean (natural) landscapes through responsible practices during film production. Additionally, we refer to our website Green Filming Tirol, the film-specific CO2 calculator by LAFC, and the Austrian Ecolabel for Green Producing. During the project’s completion, we also assess which green measures have been successfully implemented in Tirol and where there is still room for improvement. With this valuable feedback, we can continue working and look for solutions. Green Filming thrives on the exchange of experiences and can evolve through it.

For which areas of film production can green practices be relatively easily implemented?
The use of reusable dishware, minimal resource consumption in print materials, local (organic) sourcing, or waste separation – implementing these measures for a green production is relatively feasible. For example, the first TV series certified with the Austrian Ecolabel for Green Producing, „SOKO Kitzbühel“ (2019), collaborated closely with local businesses during filming in Tirol. They also utilized second-hand products in the costume and props department, all cleaning agents, office supplies, hygiene products, and makeup materials carried environmental compatibility labels. Additionally, all prop vehicles and a portion of production vehicles were converted to hybrid propulsion.