FSU film school leads the way in sustainable filmmaking
Florida State University’s College of Motion Picture Arts is emerging as a national leader in environmentally responsible filmmaking, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in film education through its partnership with the Environmental Media Association (EMA) and its membership in the Green Film School Alliance.
FSU students are not only meeting but consistently exceeding rigorous sustainability standards. In 2025, FSU student productions received more EMA Green Seals than New York University (NYU), Columbia University, Chapman University, the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of Southern California combined.
“Great storytelling and environmental responsibility go hand in hand,” said Jessica Schilling, professor of editing and a member of the Faculty Green Committee. “We’re proud to lead the charge in teaching the next generation of filmmakers how to create without compromise, both artistically and environmentally.”
FSU joined the Green Film School Alliance in 2024, aligning with institutions such as the American Film Institute, New York University, Columbia and Sundance to integrate industry-level sustainable production practices into film school programs. The alliance focuses on reducing the environmental impact of physical production, sharing best practices and advancing sustainable initiatives across member schools.
Student leadership has played a central role in the school’s rapid progress. The first cohort of Sustainability Representatives, many of whom also served as campus Sustainability Fellows, helped establish the systems now used across student productions.