Sustainable Set Construction: Innovations in Eco-Friendly Materials and Practices
In today’s production landscape, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a responsibility. As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, set construction is evolving to meet the demand for eco-friendly practices. At Totom, we understand the need to balance creativity with sustainability, and we are committed to minimising the environmental impact of our set-building processes. By adopting innovative, sustainable materials and practices, we help our clients meet their own sustainability goals while still delivering the high-quality sets they expect.
The ALBERT Initiative and Totom’s Commitment
Totom is proud to align with the ALBERT Initiative, an industry-backed organisation that aims to reduce the environmental impact of the screen industry. From the start of each project, we prioritise sustainability, supporting production companies in achieving their ALBERT certification and maintaining environmentally conscious practices throughout the process. Our dedication to sustainability is woven into every aspect of our set construction, from the materials we choose to how we dispose of our waste.
Set components stored on the mezzanine at our workshop in High Wycombe
Streamlining Sustainability: Let Us Handle the Paperwork
At Totom, we know that while Production Designers excel in creative vision, the administrative side of sustainability, such as completing ALBERT Initiative paperwork, can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. With our extensive experience in sustainable set construction, we don’t just stop at building eco-friendly sets; we also take care of the documentation that goes along with it.
We’ve developed custom electronic tools that streamline the reporting process, making it simple and efficient. Our team is more than happy to handle all required paperwork for you, ensuring that every aspect of the project adheres to the necessary environmental standards. This saves you time and allows you to focus on what you do best: designing incredible sets.
By partnering with Totom, you’re not only benefiting from our expertise in sustainable construction but also from our commitment to making the entire process as smooth as possible. Let us take care of the details while you bring your creative ideas to life.
Frames and columns being stored at our workshop
Sustainable Materials: Reducing Environmental Impact from the Ground Up
One of the biggest factors in sustainable set construction is the choice of materials. At Totom, we go beyond traditional options, selecting materials that are both durable and environmentally friendly. For example:
- FSC-Certified Softwood and MDF: Our softwood timber and MDF boarding come from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified sources, ensuring they are harvested from renewable plantation forests. By sourcing wood from responsibly managed forests, we help promote the long-term health of ecosystems and reduce deforestation.
- PEFC-Certified Plyboard: We use hardwood plyboard from Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certified sources in Malaysia, a more sustainable alternative to South American woods. We reduce our carbon footprint by selecting materials from sustainable regions and supporting responsible forestry practices.
- Recycled Chipboard: Whenever possible, we opt for chipboard, which is made from 70% recycled wood. This not only reduces the demand for virgin timber but also helps divert wood waste from landfills. It’s an excellent option for both durability and environmental impact.
- Non-Toxic Paint: We use at least 97% non-toxic, water-based paints, reducing harmful chemicals and ensuring a safer environment for our team and our clients. Any surplus paint is reused for base coatings, further minimising waste.
By focusing on these sustainable materials, we ensure that every set we build is not only visually stunning but also environmentally conscious. In addition, we are meticulous in our design process, tailoring each set to fit standard sheet sizes and reducing unnecessary waste.
Flattage stored in our workshop
Repurposing and Reusing: Giving New Life to Old Sets
Sustainability doesn’t stop once a set is completed. At Totom, we believe in the power of reusing and repurposing set elements whenever possible. After a project is wrapped, many components of the set are stored for future use. Our stock includes:
- Flattage
- Chipboard flooring
- Architectural pieces
- Doors, windows, and door furniture
By repurposing these elements, we reduce the need for new materials, cut down on waste, and save on production costs; all while maintaining high design standards.
Doors held for reuse in the workshop
Spotlight on Leading Set Building Companies in London
Even with our best efforts to reduce, reuse, and repurpose materials, waste is an inevitable part of set construction. However, at Totom, we take care to ensure that our waste disposal practices are as environmentally responsible as possible. We partner with Hawes Waste Management, a leading waste disposal company that specialises in recycling and repurposing materials.
- Wood: All wood waste is either chipped into biomass fuel or sent to manufacturers to be recycled into new chipboard, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
- Metal: Any metal components are separated and sent to smelting facilities, where they are recycled and reintroduced into the manufacturing process.
- Plastics and Acrylics: These are converted into pellets, which are then melted down and reused to create new plastic products.
- Carpet and Rubber: These materials are shredded and repurposed for use in equestrian surfaces, giving them a second life in an entirely new industry.
Hawes Waste Management in High Wycombe
Embracing Innovation: Our Wood Furnace Solution
One of the most exciting recent developments in our sustainability journey is the installation of a state-of-the-art wood furnace at our workshop. This furnace uses wood offcuts and scraps generated during the set-building process to heat our building, replacing fossil fuels and significantly reducing our carbon footprint.
This low-carbon heating solution not only reduces our reliance on non-renewable energy sources but also minimises the amount of wood waste that needs to be sent for external recycling. By turning our waste into a valuable resource, we are creating a closed-loop system that supports both our energy needs and our sustainability goals.
Our new furnace ready for installation
Conclusion: Building for the Future
At Totom, we believe that the future of set construction lies in sustainability. As we continue to innovate and improve our practices, we remain committed to reducing our environmental impact while still delivering the exceptional sets our clients have come to expect. Whether it’s through the use of eco-friendly materials, repurposing set elements, or responsibly managing waste, we are proud to play our part in building a more sustainable future for the entertainment industry.
If you’re looking for a set construction partner that values creativity, quality, and sustainability, Totom is here to help bring your vision to life, while protecting the planet for future generations.
Scoop set made by Totom
by Totom