Thank you to our 15th Anniversary Sponsor – 11th Hour Racing!

 

SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES AT NEWPORTFILM

In recent years, newportFILM has become a leader in sustainable event practices. Since launching its Zero Waste Initiative in 2022, the organization has successfully diverted 78.9% of compostable waste from landfills. At every outdoor event, composting and recycling stations are staffed by trained volunteers to ensure materials are properly sorted.

The elimination of single-use plastics, encouragement of “carry in, carry out” practices, and the requirement that food vendors use compostable or recyclable materials have all contributed to this success. In 2024, these efforts were officially recognized when newportFILM was certified as a Green Event by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.

 

 

To reduce event-related emissions, newportFILM has also partnered with Bike Newport to promote biking as an alternative mode of transportation to events to encourage a more sustainable lifestyle among attendees.

 

 

IMPLEMENTING THE TOOLBOX FRAMEWORK

To take its sustainability efforts to the next level, newportFILM adopted The Toolbox, a comprehensive framework designed to support the development and implementation of sustainable strategies for events. The Toolbox, funded by 11th Hour Racing, is a free, open access online hub that provides guides, tools and templates to create sustainability plans, build impactful initiatives, and monitor and reduce GreenHouse Gas emissions – for any industry.

Key impacts of the Toolbox implementation include:

  • Assessing Progress (Step 7): Toolbox-provided tracking tools have enabled newportFILM to monitor key metrics such as waste diversion and transportation habits. This data has been instrumental in validating impact and shaping future strategies.

  • Data-Driven Decisions: Insights from event data have improved how decisions are made, helping the team identify what’s working and where improvements are needed.
  • Formalizing Policy (Step 2): newportFILM is currently drafting a sustainability policy using guidelines from the Toolbox. This document will reflect their current practices, showcase their achievements, and provide a foundation for future progress.

Looking ahead, newportFILM plans to use the Toolbox to address remaining challenges—such as reducing dependence on diesel generators. The iterative nature of the process ensures the organization can continue evolving and refining its sustainability model.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS & PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

Strategic partnerships have been central to newportFILM’s progress. Collaborations with local food vendors, city stakeholders, and environmental organizations have enabled more efficient implementation of zero-waste strategies.

 

Beyond logistics, newportFILM also prioritizes education. Attendees are engaged through dynamic signage, trained volunteers, and event communications that explain and reinforce sustainable behaviors. By embedding sustainability into the event experience, newportFILM transforms public gatherings into environmental awareness and action opportunities.

With an eye toward continuous improvement, newportFILM is not only reducing its environmental impact—but also inspiring others to rethink how events can be both memorable and sustainable.