Research Initiated on Environmental Effects of Star Wars Filming at Heritage Location

An academic from a university has initiated research into the environmental effects of a Star Wars series shot on the Jurassic Coast. Winspit Quarry, a disused site in Dorset close to Worth Matravers, served as a filming location for the Disney+ Star Wars production Andor during 2021. Dr. Rebecca Harrison, affiliated with the Open University’s Film and Media department, is seeking participants for an online survey to aid her investigation into how film production influences both the environment and nearby communities. The senior lecturer indicated her intention to examine 14 locations throughout the UK. The Environmental Impact of Filmmaking (EIF) study is also designed to compare the current state of these sites—including their wildlife, human presence, waste, and vehicle movement—with their depiction in the Star Wars franchise. This particular Star Wars series functions as a prequel to the spin-off movie Rogue One, released in 2016, and centers on the protagonist Cassian Andor, portrayed by Diego Luna. Although film crews had intended to utilize Winspit Quarry again in 2023, these plans were abandoned due to worries about potential landslips. Dr Harrison stated: “I want to know what wildlife is disrupted when cameras and catering trucks move in, how people feel when roads are closed, or recreational sites are closed off, and why the advantages of location shoots are always promoted in economic terms.“I want to look beyond the headlines to understand how film shoots might become more environmentally friendly for plants, animals, and people in future.” According to official statistics from the British Film Industry, film and high-end television production companies invested £4.23 billion in the UK during 2023. Dr Harrison commented: “It’s clear that there are economic advantages to allowing location shoots – but we need to make sure they’re managed in a way that suits local communities and protects the habitats of our increasingly endangered wildlife.”