Behind the Scenes: Making Bollywood Film Sets Sustainable

Bollywood is more than just a film industry; it’s a vibrant expression of Indian culture, color, and creativity. While the songs, dance numbers, and grand sets dazzle us on screen, there’s a growing awareness of what happens behind the scenes, especially regarding the environmental impact of film production.

In recent years, sustainability has gained attention worldwide. Industries, from fashion to food, are waking up to the reality of climate change, resource scarcity, and waste management. Now, Bollywood is also beginning to embrace sustainability.

Let’s look behind the camera to see how Bollywood is making its film sets more eco-friendly and why it matters.

The Environmental Footprint of Film Sets

Before we explore solutions, it’s vital to understand the problem. Film production, especially in Bollywood, where grandeur is crucial, consumes vast resources:

- Electricity and fuel for lighting, equipment, generators, and transportation

- Water for set maintenance, costumes, and even artificial rain scenes

- Construction waste from elaborate sets that are built and torn down within weeks

- Plastic and disposables used in catering and daily operations

- Carbon emissions from air travel, heavy logistics, and on-location shoots

With many films and web series produced each month, the environmental toll adds up quickly.

So, What Does a “Green Film Set” Look Like?

A sustainable or “green” film set aims to reduce waste, reuse materials, recycle resources, and cut carbon emissions whenever possible. It involves smart planning, conscious choices, and small changes that create a significant impact.

Here’s how Bollywood is starting to adopt sustainability:

1. Eco-Friendly Set Design

Traditionally, sets are often made of plywood, thermocol, plastic props, and synthetic paints; most of these are discarded after the shoot.

The shift:

- Reusable materials like bamboo, cloth, or metal structures are becoming more popular.

- Modular set pieces can now be designed for disassembly and reuse in future productions.

- Set materials are often donated or repurposed instead of thrown away.

Example: The team behind the film "Raazi" reused an old bungalow instead of building a new set, saving both costs and materials.

2. Waste Management on Set

Catering leftovers, plastic bottles, and used paper mean that the average film set generates a lot of waste daily.

Sustainable solutions:

- Segregated bins for recyclables, compostables, and landfill waste

- Encouraging zero-plastic zones and banning single-use items

- Partnering with NGOs and composting services to manage waste responsibly

Some shoots have started using reusable steel cutlery and plates in crew canteens.

3. Switch to Clean Energy

Generators, lighting, and air conditioning consume vast amounts of diesel and electricity.

What’s changing:

- Adoption of LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment

- Use of solar-powered backup systems

- Better planning to reduce night shoots and energy use

In some advertising shoots, producers have utilized portable solar panels to power basic equipment.

4. Green Transport Practices

Travel is a big part of filmmaking, from crew vans to extensive flight schedules.

Steps being taken:

- Carpooling for crew and cast

- Using electric vehicles on larger studio premises

- Avoiding unnecessary air travel and opting for virtual meetings when possible

Fun fact: Some stars have even chosen electric cars for local commutes on set!

5. Costume and Prop Sustainability

Bollywood is known for extravagant costumes and props, many of which are used only once.

Sustainable shift:

- Renting costumes instead of buying new ones

- Reusing props across multiple films or theater productions

- Using natural fabrics and eco-friendly dyes

In films like "Chhapaak" and "Article 15," simplicity in costumes also contributed to sustainability.

Bollywood’s Green Pioneers

Some directors and producers are leading efforts toward sustainability. For example:

- Dia Mirza, an actor and environmentalist, is vocal about green filming.

- Zoya Akhtar’s team focused on minimal waste and conscious practices while filming "Gully Boy."

- Production houses like Excel Entertainment have begun following basic eco-guidelines.

In fact, some filmmakers are now applying for green certifications for their sets!

Small Changes, Big Impact

You don’t need to be a big-budget producer to make a difference. Here are some simple but effective practices being adopted:

- Digital call sheets instead of paper

- Encouraging cast and crew to bring their own reusable bottles

- Donating leftover food to local shelters

- Choosing local vendors to reduce transport emissions

Challenges in Going Green

Of course, going green isn’t always easy.

- Initial costs can be higher (though savings come later)

- Some older production teams lack awareness or resist change

- Time constraints make sustainable planning harder

- There are no unified guidelines or policies across the industry

But change is happening slowly, steadily, and surely.

What’s Next?

For Bollywood to become truly sustainable, collaboration across the industry is crucial. This means:

- Government and film bodies creating incentives or mandates

- Studios investing in green infrastructure

- More workshops and training on eco-friendly practices

- Fans and audiences encouraging the shift by supporting conscious cinema

Final Thoughts

We love the magic of Bollywood - the music, emotions, and stories. But it’s time to ensure that the magic doesn’t harm our planet.

Sustainability on film sets isn’t just a trend; it’s a responsibility. The best part? It doesn’t stifle creativity. In fact, it inspires new ways of working smarter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

So next time you’re watching your favorite movie, remember: there’s a green movement happening behind the scenes, and it’s just beginning.

Quick Recap: 7 Simple Steps Toward a Green Film Set

1. Reuse and recycle set materials

2. Ban single-use plastic

3. Use energy-efficient lighting

4. Plan transport sustainably

5. Donate or repurpose costumes and props

6. Compost or redistribute leftover food

7. Go digital with call sheets and scripts

Let’s support a Bollywood that entertains and sustains.