Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)

Credit: Spider-Man and Boomerang in Columbia Pictures SPIDER-MAN™: BRAND NEW DAY.

The Spider-Man franchise has inspired generations of audiences with stories of courage, responsibility, and hope, and Spider-Man: Brand New Day applied those same values behind the scenes, by taking responsibility for its environmental impact and embedding sustainability throughout every stage of production. For a film of this scale with dynamic logistics, scheduling demands and creative ambition, integrating sustainability was no small achievement.

Through electrification, renewable electricity, and lower-carbon operational practices, the production reduced its utility and fuel greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 21.6% while meeting the complex demands of a major feature film. These efforts earned the production a 3-star BAFTA albert certification and EMA Gold Seal, demonstrating that lower-carbon filmmaking can be successfully delivered at blockbuster scale.

Fleet Electrification

The production was at the forefront of the industry’s transition to electric transportation fleets, becoming the first film production to operate a fleet in which 62% of technical trucks were electric. By deploying industry-specific electric technical trucks developed by technology pioneer AGS, eight battery-powered tech trucks replaced traditional diesel-powered tech trucks and generators, supported by the AGS iTrailer – a mobile battery energy storage system equipped with a 200-kWh battery. Rather than transporting diesel generators between locations, the iTrailer travelled with the fleet, recharging multiple tech trucks on site before battery levels became low.

Remote telemetry continuously monitored battery charge, energy use, temperature, and performance, ensuring uninterrupted power throughout production. This innovative mobile charging solution helped reduce diesel fuel use, one of production’s highest-emitting areas, supporting Sony Pictures’ goal of eliminating fossil fuels from production. In addition to its fleet of electric tech trucks, the production hired over 35 low-emission vehicles, demonstrating how electrification can be successfully integrated into large-scale film physical production.

Studio Infrastructure

The commitment to clean power extended across the wider production, with studio facilities, warehouses, and production offices powered by 100% renewable electricity. Both Pinewood Studios and Sky Studios Elstree were supplied with electricity generated in the UK from renewable sources, while unit base operations relied entirely on studio house power, instead of temporary diesel generators.

Hybrid Systems

While filming on location, the Sustainability and Locations teams deployed hybrid battery-generator systems to power Catering and Craft. The trial reduced generator run time and achieved an estimated 51% fuel saving for the Craft setup. The case study, created by Sustainable Film, shares insights that will help future productions to right-size generators, reduce emissions, and improve on-location power management.

Rail Travel

To reduce transport emissions, the production kept all filming within the UK, hired more than 200 local crew members in Glasgow, and prioritized rail travel wherever possible. During the second unit shoot, a chartered train transported 126 crew members to Glasgow, with 160 passengers returning by rail. By choosing rail over air travel on suitable domestic and European routes, the production avoided 86% estimated emissions on comparable routes, with the greatest savings achieved on journeys between London and Glasgow.

Circularity

A large backlot of New York city set, previously used in four different locations at the same studio, was preserved for future productions rather than dismantled, extending its lifespan while reducing material waste. Additional resources were donated or shared across the industry, including timber flats to Burnham Men’s Shed, set decoration and construction materials to No Floor No More, and props to other productions.

Training and communication

To keep everyone informed, the Sustainable Film team prepared sustainability memos, monthly newsletters, competitions, on-set signage, and other materials to keep sustainability targets front of mind. To expand knowledge on the importance of sustainable production, all cast and crew were invited to take SPE’s internal sustainability online training. With 63% of production cast and crew members completing this training, the program helped build understanding of both the challenges of climate change and the practical actions individuals can take to reduce the environmental impact of production.

Following completion of the training, 22% of participants voluntarily shared ideas on how the industry can continue to advance its sustainability journey. Their feedback reflected a strong enthusiasm for exploring new opportunities, expanding knowledge, and contributing to more sustainable practices. Suggestions included encouraging more sustainable travel through car sharing; expanding the reuse of costumes, materials and equipment; and exploring battery and renewable energy solutions. Participants also highlighted the importance of continued sustainability training and open conversations to spark new ideas, strengthen understanding, and empower cast and crew to embed sustainable practices into everyday production, demonstrating a shared commitment to driving positive change across the industry.