Theatre has long gathered and connected communities through story and shared experience. The performing arts can educate, provoke and inspire climate action. Yet the industry grapples with its own environmental footprint.

In response, the Theatre Green Book was released as a free, global framework for sustainable theatre practice.

The Theatre Green Book began as a collective initiative by writer Paddy Dillon and theatre-makers in the United Kingdom, in response to calls for coordinated climate action within the arts. Since then, it has been adapted into more than 17 iterations and used in more than 50 countries.

The Australian version adapts the European framework to an Australian context. It was first published online in 2023 by myself (Grace Nye-Butler) and Chris Mercer. The second edition, published today, was developed in collaboration with First Nations performing arts practitioners and the wider industry.

This edition grounds sustainability in relationship, legacy and innovation. It offers a Country-centred approach that honours First Nations Custodianship of Country, connection to Culture and Community.

As Dalisa Pigram, co-artistic director of dance company Marrugeku, explained during collaboration for the book: “Country is the oldest ancestor and the first teacher. If you care for Country, Country will care for you. It...