FIAT/IFTA World Conference 2024

Film archives safeguard and preserve physical media and digital files. However, the ecological impact is considerable. Today, in the midst of climate turmoil and uncertainty, we wonder about the balance between preserving the audiovisual memory of our species and mitigating its environmental impact, particularly in the Global South.  

The approach to two of the most consolidated institutional archives in Mexico and Colombia, has allowed us to learn more and compare the various economic and social factors that face the challenge of preservation and sustainability in our times. At the same time, it has allowed us to have more in depth knowledge of diverse Archive Managers’ perspectives on possible ecological strategies related to preservation.

Thus, we ask ourselves, to what extent film preservation strategies can be modified in relation to their environmental impact. Should the loss or non-rescue of certain films be assumed as a strategy of ecological care, in view of a future increasingly threatened by climate change? Can a more democratic access to film archives justify their carbon footprint, beyond the importance of safeguarding historical memory?

With these questions, we aim to delve into the grassroots innovation practices of film archives in relation to new preservation and dissemination strategies in response to climate upheaval and uncertainty. Thus, to reflect on the historical and colonial responsibility of the Global North towards the Global South, as well as on the decision-making process of these institutions in relation to smaller archives, pondering the ethical place of audiovisual memory preservation and its balance with ecological heritage conservation.