The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) recently hosted a panel titled “Reel Green: Sustainability and Storytelling Across Four Cinemas.” The event featured filmmakers from four nations: India, Japan, Spain, and Australia. On November 21, 2025, the discussion examined the intersection of film production, environmental stewardship, and cultural narratives.
Insights from the Panel
The conversation was moderated by Naman Ramachandran, an accomplished journalist and film critic. He opened the discussion by highlighting how sustainability affects both the filmmaking process and the stories told on screen. Key figures included Nila Madhab Panda from India, Mina Moteki from Japan, Anna Saura from Spain, and Garth Davis from Australia.
Nila Madhab Panda: The Urgency of Sustainability
- Nila Madhab Panda emphasized cinema’s significant carbon footprint.
- He urged filmmakers to adopt greener practices, especially in smaller productions.
- His message highlighted the urgency to protect our planet from environmental degradation.
Mina Moteki: Challenges in Low-Budget Productions
Mina Moteki shared insights on the difficulties faced by low-budget films in adopting sustainable practices. While larger projects may have the resources for innovation, she pointed out that smaller productions struggle with logistics and energy management. She noted ongoing efforts in Japanese cinema to improve energy efficiency.
Anna Saura: Creative Responsibility
Anna Saura echoed concerns about sustainable filmmaking as a creative responsibility. She advocated for mindful choices in areas such as distribution and set management. According to Saura, every small decision contributes to larger environmental goals.
Garth Davis: Narratives that Inspire
Garth Davis brought a narrative perspective to the discussion, stressing the power of film to connect audiences to nature. He remarked on how storytelling influences both awareness and behaviors regarding environmental sustainability.
Global Practices in Sustainable Filmmaking
The panelists discussed best practices from their respective countries, illuminating different cultural approaches to sustainable filmmaking:
- Australia: A focus on cultural respect and leaving natural locations undisturbed after productions.
- Japan: A blend of traditional and modern techniques, including using public transport and careful resource management.
- Spain: Implementation of the Green Film Certification system to promote eco-friendly practices in production.
The Role of the Younger Generation
Throughout the session, participants emphasized the importance of involving younger generations in sustainability efforts. They identified youth as catalysts for change, capable of advocating for eco-conscious productions and storytelling.
Strategies for Sustainable Filmmaking
Practical approaches discussed included:
- Minimizing waste.
- Reusing costumes.
- Choosing real locations over constructed sets.
Panelists also called for greater governmental and institutional support for sustainable initiatives. Nila Madhab Panda suggested the establishment of certification systems, while Garth Davis recommended linking production incentives to environmental accountability.
Conclusion: A Mindset Shift
As the discussion concluded, it became clear that sustainability in cinema transcends technical guidelines; it signifies a transformational mindset. The panel underscored that across India, Japan, Spain, and Australia, environmental awareness is intricately woven into storytelling, craftsmanship, and cultural responsibility. With a shared commitment to a greener future, filmmakers can inspire audiences and motivate the next wave of creators.
