Below is a transcript of our podcast with Molly Braverman to listen to the podcast click here.
Hello, listeners! Welcome to the 2030 or Bust podcast. I’m Jackie Gonzalez, and I’m thrilled to have a very special guest with us today: Molly Braverman. Molly is the director of the Broadway Green Alliance and has an impressive background as a stage manager on Broadway, having toured with productions like “Wicked” and “Hamilton.” She’s an advocate for sustainability in the arts and has lectured internationally on the topic. Additionally, Molly is a graduate of Columbia University and a trained climate reality leader by none other than former Vice President Al Gore. Molly, welcome to the podcast! We are so glad to have you with us.
Introduction to Molly Braverman and the Broadway Green Alliance
Thank you so much, Jackie. I’m thrilled to be here.
Molly, the way you were introduced to me was through your collaboration with our 2030 or Bust crew during Earth Day on Broadway last month. Could you share more about that experience and the significance of Earth Day for the Broadway community?
Certainly! Earth Day on Broadway is one of our flagship events at the Broadway Green Alliance. It’s a day where we bring together the theater community to celebrate our achievements in sustainability and raise awareness about environmental issues. This year, we had the pleasure of partnering with 2030 or Bust to amplify our message. It was a fantastic experience seeing so many Broadway professionals and fans alike engaging in eco-friendly activities and pledging to reduce their carbon footprints.
The Role of the Broadway Green Alliance
For our listeners who might not be familiar, could you give an overview of what the Broadway Green Alliance does?
Absolutely. The Broadway Green Alliance (BGA) is an industry-wide initiative that educates, motivates, and inspires the entire theater community and its patrons to adopt environmentally friendlier practices. We work on various fronts, from reducing waste and improving energy efficiency in theaters to promoting sustainable practices in production design and stage management. Our goal is to make Broadway and the larger theater community leaders in environmental stewardship.
Sustainability in Theater Productions
How did you become involved with the Broadway Green Alliance, and what inspired your passion for sustainability in the theater industry?
My journey with the BGA began through my work as a stage manager. Working on large-scale productions like “Wicked” and “Hamilton,” I witnessed firsthand the substantial amount of waste generated in theater productions. This experience, coupled with my academic background and training with the Climate Reality Project, fueled my desire to make a positive change. Joining the BGA allowed me to combine my passion for theater and sustainability, working towards a greener future for the arts.
Can you provide some examples of the specific initiatives or changes that the BGA has implemented on Broadway?
Certainly! One of our significant initiatives is the recycling and upcycling of stage materials. For instance, sets, props, and costumes that are no longer in use are often repurposed or donated instead of being discarded. We’ve also introduced energy-efficient lighting systems in many theaters, which not only reduce carbon emissions but also lower operating costs. Additionally, we conduct regular workshops and training sessions to educate theater professionals about sustainable practices, from reducing plastic use to implementing greener transportation options.
Challenges and Achievements
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in promoting sustainability within the Broadway community?
One of the primary challenges is changing long-standing habits and practices. The theater industry is deeply rooted in tradition, and shifting towards more sustainable methods can sometimes meet resistance. There’s also the issue of cost, as some eco-friendly alternatives can be more expensive initially. However, we’ve found that with education and demonstrating the long-term benefits—both environmentally and financially—many are willing to make the transition.
What achievements are you most proud of since joining the BGA?
I’m incredibly proud of the collective impact we’ve made in reducing Broadway’s carbon footprint. One standout achievement is the significant reduction in single-use plastics in theaters. We’ve also seen a remarkable increase in the number of productions adopting green certifications. But perhaps what I’m most proud of is the cultural shift within the community. There’s a growing awareness and commitment to sustainability that’s truly inspiring.
Looking to the Future
What are the BGA’s plans for the future? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re particularly excited about?
We have several exciting projects in the pipeline. One of our major goals is to achieve zero waste in Broadway theaters by 2030. To support this, we’re launching new programs focused on waste management and sustainable production design. We’re also working on expanding our educational outreach to include more regional theaters and international productions. Additionally, we’re planning a large-scale sustainability summit for the theater community to share knowledge and collaborate on innovative solutions.
How can individuals and theater fans support the Broadway Green Alliance and contribute to a more sustainable theater industry?
There are many ways to get involved! Fans can start by following us on social media and participating in our campaigns. Simple actions like choosing reusable merchandise over single-use items or supporting productions that prioritize sustainability can make a big difference. We also encourage theatergoers to reduce their own carbon footprints by using public transportation and advocating for greener practices in their local theaters. And, of course, donations and volunteer work are always welcome to help us continue our mission.
Conclusion
Molly, it’s been an absolute pleasure having you on the podcast today. Your work with the Broadway Green Alliance is truly inspiring, and it’s clear that you’re making a significant impact on the theater community and beyond. Thank you for sharing your insights and for all that you do to promote sustainability in the arts.
Thank you so much, Jackie. It’s been wonderful speaking with you, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss our work. Together, we can make a difference and create a greener future for the theater industry.
Thank you, listeners, for tuning in to this episode of the 2030 or Bust podcast. We hope you’ve enjoyed our conversation with Molly Braverman and learned more about the incredible work of the Broadway Green Alliance. Remember, each of us has a role to play in creating a sustainable future. Until next time, stay green and stay inspired!
