Sustainability process
The Braunschweig International Film Festival (BIFF) regards sustainability as an ongoing process and an integral component of its festival philosophy. As a founding member of the AG Filmfestival working group, the BIFF is bound by the ethical principles of the 18-point catalogue of standards. Furthermore, the Festival is actively committed to ensuring ecological, social and economic sustainability in all areas of its activities – from festival operations through to film education.
Mobility - Travelling to the Festival & Festival fleet
We place great emphasis on climate-friendly mobility solutions. Our guests are encouraged to make environmentally-friendly journeys to the Festival by train. In the city centre, we utilise low-emission vehicles and – where possible – bicycles or public transport for shuttles and moving around. We are continuously examining the possibility of switching to an all-electric Festival fleet.
Catering - Regional, vegetarian/vegan, socially responsible
Our receptions and events are serviced by regional caterers who prioritise seasonal products and sustainable origins. For several years now, we mostly have refrained from offering meat products in our catering services and instead focus preferably on vegetarian and vegan dishes. Our beverage partners are also characterised by social commitment and fair production conditions.
Waste - Separation & avoidance
In the entire Festival office and in the venues, waste is consistently separated. We utilise reusable materials, avoid packaging waste and promote the use of sustainable products by all partners. A reduction of the environmental footprint is a key objective.
Advertising - Reduction as opposed to excess
Advertising materials are reduced to a minimum. Since 2020, we have largely dispensed with unnecessary printed materials and promotional gifts. Wherever possible, we work digitally and avoid disposable products. The focus lies on targeted, meaningful communication – not on bulk advertising.
Printing - Conscious & CO₂-neutral
Our programme brochure is produced in a greatly reduced edition on CO₂-neutral paper, and is printed by oeding print GmbH in Braunschweig, one of the most sustainable print service providers in Europe. Other printed materials have been eliminated in favour of digital alternatives. This represents an active contribution towards the conservation of resources.
Big Data - Technology & digital media
Our team works via an internal cloud, which is also used externally for the secure and resource-conserving exchange of data. In addition, our Festival software provides all participants with centralised access to relevant information – thereby significantly reducing E-mail traffic.
For the delivery of the Festival films, the Festival utilises the server of a cinema-technology provider: over 90% of the film copies are sent digitally or downloaded directly – this not only ensures savings on materials and shipping costs, but also reduces the CO₂ emissions resulting from international transport.
Social issues – Inclusion & participation
Inclusion and cultural participation are integral elements of our self-conception. We enable barrier-free access to the Festival programme – through subtitles, audio descriptions, accompanying services and targeted public-relations work. The BIFF is a place for everyone – regardless of origin, age, gender, social status or physical condition.
Film awards - For social change
With the ECHT and TILDA film awards, the Festival broadcasts a clear signal for equal rights and the visibility of marginalised groups in the film industry. The award-winning films and artists symbolise inclusive, diverse and committed filmmaking that helps to shape social change.
Our Green Horizon film series is dedicated to ecological and sustainable topics. Films are screened that not only critically scrutinise the way humans treat the environment, climate and nature, but also recount inspiring stories and open up scope for action.
With our sustainably designed awards, we make our concerns clearly visible.
Handprint - Shaping the future together
Sustainability does not just mean foregoing things – active participation is key. For this reason, the BIFF encourages its audience to become actively involved. With support groups, information programmes, workshops and panels, we make it clear that everyone can be part of the solution.
Film education - Learning & reflecting
The BIFF sees itself as a place for exchange and development. In film education, we focus on interactive formats for schools and young people. Workshops, discussions with filmmakers, and educational materials create space for reflection and discourse on socially relevant topics.
Panel - Dialogue & discourse
Within the supporting programme, we create – through various discussion events – a platform for exchange on topics such as sustainability in film as well as diversity and social responsibility in the film and festival industry. As a result, the BIFF becomes a place for lively debate.
Working conditions - Fair & transparent
The BIFF has been honoured with the Fair Festival Award. We are committed to fair working conditions, transparent contracts, appropriate remuneration and a respectful Festival structure. We practise this attitude in our day-to-day teamwork as well as in our collaboration with external partners.