The British Council Australia is proud to partner with Theatre Green Book Australia, supporting the Australian performing arts sector to respond to the climate crisis. This free, practical resource adapts the internationally acclaimed UK Theatre Green Book for the country's unique context, addressing everything from vast touring distances to diverse ecosystems and supply chains, while connecting Australian practitioners to a global movement for environmental responsibility in the arts.
The Theatre Green Book, first launched in the UK, has had a major impact on the industry. It is considered a key resource to support the sector transition towards sustainable practices. Since its launch, it has been adapted into more than 17 iterations and used in more than 50 countries. As the industry globally engages in this transition, tools and a common language are needed to support effective collaboration whilst also being nuanced to the unique practices that exist within various regions.
The Theatre Green Book Australia utilises the global Theatre Green Book as a base to create a framework that speaks to the Australian theatre industry, whilst enabling practitioners to work within a common framework with colleagues across the world. Developed by Grace Nye-Butler and Chris Mercer, the second edition was created in collaboration with First Nations performing arts practitioners, offering a Country-centred approach that honours First Nations Custodianship of Country, connection to Culture and Community.
Adapting the book for Australia is essential given the country's unique ecological landscape and the nuances of its theatre industry, including technical terminology, suppliers, certification, and regional touring and production practices. The Theatre Green Book Australia reflects the vast distances involved in touring, the diversity of local ecosystems, and the distinct supply chains and materials used here. This tailoring keeps the resource grounded in local context, making it practical and relevant for Australian theatre professionals.
The Theatre Green Book Australia provides a practical, step-by-step guide to help companies reduce their environmental impact across three key areas: productions, operations and buildings. Central to the approach is the view that sustainability should be seen as a creative opportunity – not a constraint.
Visit theatregreenbook.com.au to access the resource and find out how to get involved.