The Green Factor of Showbiz: going the sustainable way on set

The entertainment industry has adapted well to the new normal amid the Covid-19 crisis — from using personal protective equipment to creating bio-bubble work environments. But does it come at the cost of the environment? While the answer doesn’t lie in a simple yes or no, steps are being taken by them to save the environment.

“Whilst ensuring everyone’s safety, we can’t ignore the environmental impact that improper disposal of PPE kits causes,” says producer and environmental activist Pragya Kapoor, adding, “During the shoot of our recent film, Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui, we turned used PPE and safety gears into ecobricks.”

Currently shooting for Ranju Ki Betiyaan, out of Mumbai, actor Roopal Tyagi reveals, “Since we’re living at a resort, we brought our own mugs and spoons to the set to avoid disposable plastic ones. We use handkerchiefs instead of wasting tissues.”

Producer of shows Tujhse Hai Raabta and Qurbaan Hua, Amir Jaffar, tells us, “We’ve stopped using plastic bottles or plates, and reduced the use of PPE kits. We also give reusable masks to the crew.”

While JD Majethia, chairman, TV division of IFTPC, and producer of the Wagle Ki Duniya reboot expresses his helplessness, he says they’re not ignoring the environment to create content. “Saving life is more important, but we ensure we pay extra attention to environmental awareness,” says Majethia, who uses reusable gears on set. Filmmaker Nila Madhab Panda, who also explores environmental issues, points out that “waste management is going to be a bigger challenge in the future”.

But there’s scope to do more.“A lot of people look up to actors and show makers. It’s not just a question of what they need to do, but what they need to demonstrate,” says environmentalist Sumaira Abdulali. BN Tiwari, president of Federation of Western Indian Cine Employees shares,“The waste is rising at an alarming speed, and to cut its impact, we need a separate department with thorough knowledge to look into it.”

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PTI Nila Madhab Panda Pragya Kapoor Health workers dump medical waste