Ireland’s screen industry is undergoing a major sustainability shift driven by Screen Ireland. Since 2022, sustainability standards are mandatory for all Screen Ireland-funded live-action productions. A national “sustainability toolkit” and the Future Ready Film initiative provide production-specific guidance for a bottom-up industry adoption.
Regulations and Reporting Obligations
All Screen Ireland–funded productions must engage a Sustainability Advisor and submit both an Emissions Reduction Plan before production and an Emissions Reduction Report after completion. Sustainability advisors must implement Zero Waste, Green Procurement, and Biodiversity Protection policies.
Carbon Emissions Reporting
Use of an approved carbon calculator is mandatory. Data from energy use, transport, accommodation, materials, and waste is compiled to calculate emissions and identify reduction pathways. Carbon offsets may be required.
Green Bonuses and Tax Credits
A pilot Sustainability Innovation Fund offers up to €25,000 per production for extra steps to reduce carbon footprint. This complements Section 481, Ireland’s general film tax incentive, although no specific green tax credit exists yet.
Local Regulations
Mains electricity is preferred over generators. Productions must ensure compliance with biodiversity and habitat protections, particularly under EU directives. All waste must be handled by licensed providers.
Stakholders are involved :
Mains power is recommended for all locations. Where unavailable, hybrid battery systems using HVO fuel are preferred. Generators should match power load to reduce waste. Energy providers are encouraged to adopt 100% renewable tariffs.
Productions must implement multi-bin systems and comply with all food and waste laws. Compostable food packaging is mandatory unless reusable options are used. All waste streams must be handled by licensed collectors, with documented proof retained for inspection.
Irish Rail connects major cities and supports electric vehicle charging at several stations (e.g. Heuston, Athy, Sallins). Public transport for crews is limited due to irregular and remote locations, but encouraged for intercity travel where feasible.
EVs increasingly used, especially in urban areas. Taxi guidelines recommend electric or hybrid models. Car allowances can be structured to favour low-emission vehicles. Infrastructure for on-site charging is recommended in offices and unit bases.
Groups, FB, Whatsapp, associations etc
Other calculators and tools are available. Their list can be consulted
on our partner‘s website Green Toolkit Film&TV.
Country’s decarbonization strategy
Ireland’s Climate Action Plan 2023 (CAP23), under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021, targets a 51% cut in carbon emissions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. The audiovisual sector is required to reduce its emissions by 25% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. Screen Ireland aligns its framework with these national obligations.
This document was produced with the contribution of…
