New Mexico's Green Filmmaking Program

New Mexico, the state already known for its green chile is now getting kudos for its green filmmaking. The new Green Filmmaking Program was developed this year to encourage film crews to help reduce the environmental footprint of the resource-intensive filmmaking enterprise. The voluntary program provides education, resources and incentives to encourage crews to seek eco-certification.

Paul Haggis, the writer/producer/director known for movies such as Letters from Iwo Jima, Million Dollar Baby, and Crash, participated in the program during filming of his latest project, In the Valley of Elah. During production Haggis said the producers “refused to rent, or reimburse anybody for, rental cars that didn't get at least 22 miles per gallon," used eco-friendly materials to build sets, and arranged for recycling and recyclables disposal at every filming location.

To assist filmmakers in greening their set, the New Mexico Film office provides everything from vendor contact information to bringing in a fleet of hybrid vehicles for production rentals. Via:: Hollywood Reporterphoto from ABQStyle Musings