GuideFilming and photography on council land

We recognise our collective responsibility – both as an organisation and as individuals – to continuously lower emissions and work towards delivering a positive legacy for our environment and local communities. By supporting the film and TV sector in adopting sustainable practices, we aim to ensure that East Devon remains a thriving, environmentally responsible destination for productions.

East Devon District Council is committed to working collaboratively with Filming in England and other stakeholders to promote sustainable solutions to support productions on reducing their carbon footprint.

Commitments
We encourage productions filming in East Devon to adopt sustainable best practices and to take steps to minimise their environmental impact. These include, but are not limited to:

• Sustainable Production Policies: We ask productions to share their green policies. If none exist, we will signpost to relevant organisations that can help develop one.
• Sustainable Travel: Encourage cast, crew, and suppliers to opt for sustainable travel options wherever possible. Incentivising carpooling, use of public transport, and other eco-friendly travel choices.
• Waste Reduction: Implement the principles of reduce, reuse and recycle across all departments. Eliminate single-use plastics and work with local waste disposal services to ensure responsible waste management.
• Reduce Paper Use: Adopt a digital-first approach, printing only when absolutely necessary.
• Recycled/Pre-used Materials: Prioritise purchasing pre-used costumes, props, and appliances to reduce demand of new resources.
• Raising Awareness: Use ‘Green Memos’ to keep crew informed about sustainability practices. Where relevant, engage crew in sustainability training.
• Energy Efficiency: Commit to using low-energy equipment, renewable power sources, and green fuel options on set.
• Local Crew: Use the Filming in England National Crew Directory to source local crew to minimise the carbon impact of travel and contact Devon Film Office to find local crew. 
• Sustainable Suppliers: Use the Filming in England National Supplier Directory to source local suppliers with sustainability credentials and contact Devon Film Office to find local suppliers. 
• Sustainable Accommodation: Where possible, opt for local accommodation close to base, and consider hiring available spaces instead of using trailers.
• Community Recycling: Partner with local charities and community organisations to recycle materials from the production, including donating leftover catering to food banks and local shelters.