SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY

From the outset, the Spider-Man: Brand New Day team supported by industry consultant Sustainable Film, set ambitious targets. From reducing big environmental impacts to encouraging everyday sustainable behaviors, the cast and crew worked together to embed sustainability throughout production. 

Leading the industry's transition to electric transportation fleets, Spider-Man: Brand New Day was the first film production to operate a fleet where 62% of technical trucks were electric. By deploying industry-specific electric technical trucks developed by technology pioneer AGS. Eight battery-powered tech trucks from AGS replaced traditional diesel-powered tech trucks and generators, supported by the AGS iTrailer - a mobile battery energy storage system equipped with a 200-kWh battery. Rather than transporting diesel generators between locations, the iTrailer travelled with the fleet, recharging multiple tech trucks on site before battery levels became low. Remote telemetry continuously monitored battery charge, energy use, temperature, and performance, ensuring uninterrupted power throughout production. This innovative mobile charging solution helped reduce diesel fuel use, one of production's highest-emitting areas, supporting Sony Pictures' goal of eliminating fossil fuels from production. In addition to its fleet of electric tech trucks, the production hired over 35 low-emission vehicles, demonstrating how electrification can be successfully integrated into large-scale film physical production. 

The commitment to clean power extended across the wider production, with studio facilities, warehouses, and production offices powered by 100% renewable electricity. Both Pinewood Studios and Sky Studios Elstree were supplied with electricity generated in the UK from renewable sources, while unit base operations relied entirely on studio house power, instead of temporary diesel generators.  

Sustainability was embedded into day-to-day production through lower-carbon travel, crew engagement, and operational practices. To reduce transport emissions, the production kept all filming within the UK, hired more than 200 local crew members in Glasgow, and prioritized rail travel wherever possible. The Catering team reduced food-related emissions by sourcing ingredients locally, tracking menu emissions, implementing comprehensive waste separation, and limiting carbon-intensive foods, including beef and lamb, to just two days per week. Finally, circularity was another key focus. A large backlot of a New York city set, previously used in four different locations at the same studio, was preserved for future productions rather than dismantled, extending its lifespan while reducing material waste. Additional resources were donated or shared across the industry, including timber flats to Burnham Men's Shed, set decoration and construction materials to No Floor No More, and props to other productions.  

To keep everyone informed, the Sustainable Film team prepared sustainability memos, monthly newsletters, competitions, on-set signage, and crew training. In total, 63% of production cast and crew members completed SPE’s internal sustainability training program, keeping environmental targets in front of mind and helping embed sustainable practices across the production. 

By combining electrification, renewable energy, lower-carbon practices, Spider-Man: Brand New Day demonstrated that sustainability can be successfully integrated into blockbuster filmmaking. The production also completed BAFTA albert's carbon calculator, enabling the team to identify where emissions reductions had been achieved and where further opportunities exist to reduce emissions on future productions. Together, these initiatives provide a practical blueprint for continuous improvement and lower-carbon filmmaking.