Sparknews and Banijay Entertainment announced the upcoming launch of a new global guide designed to help unscripted producers incorporate environmental and social narratives into their storytelling. Following the successful debut of the Screens of Tomorrow initiative for writers, producers, and broadcasters in the scripted sector, Europe’s largest studio has pledged funding and support for the development and rollout of this complementary version, set to launch in January 2025.
Initially developed by Sparknews in collaboration with a wide range of TV and film professionals, the Screens of Tomorrow guides aim to integrate inclusive and sustainable themes into fictional storytelling. Rather than acting as industry certifications focused on metrics, these guides feature thought-provoking questions and a resource center. With no fixed right or wrong answers, the initiative seeks to foster creativity rather than limit it, aiming to bring responsible content to screens. The open-source toolkits—covering writing, production and directing, broadcasting, and distribution—have raised awareness and spurred action across the global entertainment industry.
Alma Gavazzi, Program Manager for Screens of Tomorrow, and Sandy Arzur, Managing Director at Sparknews, shared:“The cultural and creative industries have the potential to profoundly influence society by promoting impactful narratives and advancing goals related to inclusivity and sustainability. By challenging stereotypes and offering fresh perspectives, creative teams can develop complex characters, innovative story arcs, and societal models shaped by contemporary issues. This enriches the stories while surprising audiences. Today, the Screens of Tomorrow guide is embedded in the eco-responsibility charters of partners like Mediawan and Canal+ and in author contracts with Newen Studios, showcasing the industry’s dedication. With the support of Banijay Entertainment, we are excited to extend this initiative to unscripted production content," explained.
Meanwhile, Lucas Green, Chief Content Officer, Operations, and Edouard Minc, Director of ESG at Banijay Entertainment, added: “ESG is a core element of Banijay Entertainment’s global strategy. As we continue to champion positive change both on-screen and behind the scenes, we remain committed to supporting employees, partners, and the broader industry in creating inspiring and forward-thinking content. The Screens of Tomorrow initiative by Sparknews is a unique and valuable resource, and we are proud to partner in adapting it for the unscripted production market," commented.
The latest version of the Screens of Tomorrow guide has been developed in collaboration with Banijay Entertainment’s central unscripted content team, Creative Networks, and its ESG department. Banijay, a leader in producing and distributing renowned brands like "Big Brother", "MasterChef", "Survivor", and "Deal or No Deal", has already tested the guide with several key labels, achieving promising results.
The original Screens of Tomorrow guides were supported by various organizations, including CNC, the Ministry of Culture, the Cannes Film Festival’s Marché du Film imPACT, Venice Production Bridge, Canal+ Group, Vivendi, TF1, France TV, ARTE, Studiocanal, and Newen Studios. Other collaborators include Mediawan, Ecoprod, Flying Secoya, Echo Studio, Ubisoft, the European Producers Club, TorinoFilmLab, Green Screen, Climate Spring, and many more. These partnerships have played a critical role in raising awareness and promoting the integration of sustainability and inclusivity across the industry.
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