Universal Pictures’ ‘Disclosure Day’: Caring for the Planet on Set
Sustainability efforts across the production helped lower emissions, reduce waste, and support local communities.
June 18, 2026
Universal Pictures’ Disclosure Day explores the idea that we’re all connected – to each other and to the planet we share. Through collaboration between production company Amblin Entertainment and Universal’s GreenerLight program, sustainability was considered from development through to the film’s release.
A dedicated sustainability team worked alongside cast and crew to implement innovative measures that reduced environmental impacts while supporting the demands of a large-scale shoot. To further highlight these efforts for audiences, director Steven Spielberg, producer Kristie Macosko Krieger, star Emily Blunt, and others participated in a behind the scenes video which launched in theaters and online.
Powering production with cleaner energy
Across departments, the production used clean and efficient energy solutions to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Hybrid generator systems powered a major set construction project and basecamp operations, cutting generator use by 87% and allowing the production to run generator-free for the majority of filming. Battery units replaced smaller generators to power on-set equipment and work trucks lowering fuel costs.
A fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles traveled approximately 163,000 miles during production, reducing fuel consumption and spend with support from mobile charging stations. Solar-powered trailers and grid power further reduced the need for generators, contributing to a carbon footprint approximately 28% below the industry average for tentpole films1.
Local community engagement
The production also made meaningful investments in locations where filming took place.
In New Jersey, the production partnered with Fosterfields Living Historical Farm to fund the installation of two new bee colonies, supporting pollination efforts and providing a hands-on educational resource for visitors. They also supported regenerative farming education through Grow It Green Morristown, a nonprofit that provides educational programs as well as fresh, organic produce to community members in need.
In upstate New York, the production collaborated with the Catskill Center to support invasive species removal and expand environmental education programs for visitors, helping preserve and protect the region’s natural ecosystems.
In addition to supporting these local organizations, the production directly donated about 800 meals from excess catering to local organizations addressing food insecurity, while a crew-led clothing drive contributed 100 pounds of gently used clothing to a local mission.
Reducing waste and materials
The production implemented a comprehensive approach to materials management, prioritizing reuse, waste diversion, and responsible sourcing. Recycling, compost, and landfill streams were deployed across production offices, stages, and filming locations, keeping more than half of materials out of landfills. Refillable water systems and recyclable aluminum bottles eliminated an estimated 200,000 single-use plastic bottles.
The team also scaled reuse efforts in set construction by repurposing lumber from previous productions and sourcing FSC-certified plywood. At wrap, set dressing, props, wardrobe, and office supplies were donated to extend the life of materials and support local community needs.
A thoughtful approach to sustainable production
Through a combination of clean energy solutions, waste reduction, and community engagement, Disclosure Day approached sustainability with innovation and care, demonstrating how these efforts can be applied during large-scale filmmaking.
1 As published by the Sustainable Entertainment Alliance in the “2020 – 2022 Carbon Emissions of Film & Television Production” report.
