As we mentioned earlier in the week, we were a bit skeptical that the 80th Academy Awards would continue on with the green precedents set by the 79th. Was it all just intimidation by Gore and company being in the seats last year?

Thankfully, it looks like the same sustainable practices implemented previously will be shown a seat for 2008 — with some extra initiatives thrown in as well. Grist’s Sarah van Schagen (and yes, Sarah. I was waiting with bated breath) did some digging and found a mysteriously buried press release on the official Oscars website. Here’s a bit of what we’re getting this year:

A few highlights of the Academy’s green program include:

>>With support from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, 100% of the energy used for the telecast, the red-carpet arrivals show and the Governors Ball will be supplied by renewable windpower.
>>All of the generators used for the production, for press support and the red carpet arrivals area are powered by a fuel mix that includes biodiesel.
>>Among the vehicles made available by General Motors for use by production staff and presenters are zero-emission hydrogen-powered cars and hybrids.
>>Food serviceware for all events associated with the Awards Presentation is either reusable or biodegradable/compostable.
>>The programs, invitations, RSVP cards, envelopes, parking passes and other printed materials include a minimum of 30% postconsumer recycled content.

Now obviously, they’re not going to be throwing a wind turbine up on the roof of the Kodak Theater to supply green energy for the event. We’re looking at offsets here — which are better than nothing. A mix of biodiesel is commendable, but we’d rather they’d have gone with Green Power Generators — a company that uses pure biodiesel generators and has a proven track record providing clean, green juice for Hollywood events. The waste management is great, the mix of GM cars “eh”, and the partnership with the NRDC rockin’.

They’re definitely not pushing the green details as much as last year, but having these efforts become a part of business as usual is best in the long term. We’re just thankful there’s something from last year that’s managed to stick.

Now bring on Joan Rivers and a large bottle of whiskey. We’re ready.

Categories: Film/TV.

About Michael dEstries

Michael has been blogging since 2005 on issues such as sustainability, renewable energy, philanthropy, and healthy living. He regularly contributes to a slew of publications, as well as consulting with companies looking to make an impact using the web and social media. He lives in Ithaca, NY with his family on an apple farm.

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