CRAFT SERVICE

Anyone who has ever made a film knows that craft service is very important to the morale of the crew. Most crew members are used to having chips and candies and other items they can grab. You can introduce a number of alternative products to your crew here, supporting small companies and promoting healthful alternatives, while still giving your crew their fix.

SNACKS: There are organic and additive-free alternatives to every type of cookie, chip and candy on the market today. If you order directly from these companies you'll save money by buying in bulk.

ASIDE FROM SALT AND SUGAR FIXES, raw vegetables are a welcome change on set around the end of the day. Fruits are worth having around throughout the day but don't overbuy perishables.

BEVERAGES: There are many drinks that are naturally sweetened and do not contain additives or preservatives. Plan ahead and buy your drinks in bulk directly from the company if you can; you'll save money and save time by sparing a production assistant the task of buying drinks on a daily basis.

SODA: Soda is so prevalent in our society that a film set without it would seem like a violation of worker's rights. Consider alternative brands to the majors. You'll save money, and many in the crew will not notice the difference. If the crew wants brand-name soda, at least you have raised discussion about our national fixation. Try to buy in glass or cans. Plastic is harder to recycle. *

COFFEE: Buy organic coffee.

BEER: When choosing a "wrap-beer" brand, support the local breweries over the mega-brewers. Investigate organic beer companies that may wish to be involved in your production.

BULK BUYING: Save on single-serve containers by using thermos type beverage dispensers with a spigot. For wrap beer and parties, consider buying returnable kegs.

CIGARETTES: Two tobacco companies without additives are American Spirit and Drum: Provide ashtrays for the crew and stress that butts on the ground are no good.

CLEANUP: Use paper bags for garbage, or bags from recycled plastic. Recycle cans. Bottles and everything else.