Explore sustainability impacts of convergent technologies in the Foresight Lab’s latest report

Brian Tarran, report editor, CoSTAR Foresight Lab

How might AI, virtual production and other convergent technologies help – or hinder – the Creative Industries in their drive to become more sustainable?

A new report from the CoSTAR Foresight Lab, written by delivery partner Arup, investigates how the Creative Industries landscape will be reshaped by convergent technologies in the coming years, with a particular focus on how these technologies will require businesses to rethink and redefine their sustainability strategies.

“We must not assume that advanced technologies, from AR to AI, necessarily mean reduced carbon,” writes CoSTAR Network chair Professor Andrew Chitty in the report’s foreword.

Sustainability Impacts of Convergent Technologies in the UK Creative Industries identifies proactive and specific actions to mindfully manage some of the environmental impacts of convergent technologies, and delivers critical calls to action for driving sustainable progress through:

• a transformative approach to leadership, with a focus on driving innovation, collaboration, and systematic change;

• transparent data reporting to foster accountability, ensure regulatory compliance, and encourage widespread adoption of sustainable practices; and

• integrated solutions that address energy consumption, resource management, and waste across the entire production lifecycle.

The report also sets out nine strategic research and development priorities for the Creative Industries, developed in consultation with experts across the CoSTAR Network.

• Download the report

• Learn more about the CoSTAR Foresight Lab’s research on decarbonisation

• Download a Policy Briefing about the report

Image - Film still from The Great Endeavour, directed and designed by Liam Young, 2024.