As part of TG4’s commitment to sustainable production practices and to achieving the targets of the Climate Action Plan, all productions commissioned by TG4 will be required to use the Albert Carbon Calculator to monitor carbon footprint from January 2021. TG4 is the first Irish broadcaster to introduce this as a mandatory requirement.
The industry specific BAFTA Albert Carbon Calculator was modified for use in Ireland in 2019 by the Screen Greening coalition formed by TG4, RTÉ, Virgin Media Television, Screen Ireland, Screen Producers Ireland, and the BAI.
It allows producers to gain a better understanding of their production’s environmental impact and ultimately be certified as sustainable production. By inputting some basic information about locations, studios, crew, travel, accommodation, locations, materials, and post-production; the calculator reveals the extent of the carbon footprint on any given production.
This awareness will then allow producers to attempt to reduce these emissions by implementing sustainable practices throughout their production, for example the elimination of single use plastic, smart waste management solutions and potential reductions in travel.
Laura Ní Cheallaigh, commissioning editor TG4 said they are excited to announce that TG4 is making the Albert Carbon Calculator a key part of all independent productions.
Neil Keaveney, director of technology for TG4 said the station is delighted by the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the production companies in adopting sustainable production practices.