A CREATIVE CAMPUS CONTINUES ITS DRIVE TOWARD ZERO WASTE WITH K&N FILTERS
A leading animation studio’s collaboration with K&N Engineering exemplifies how thoughtful innovation can drive meaningful environmental and economic benefits. By replacing disposable HVAC filters with durable, washable alternatives, the studio has taken a significant step toward achieving its sustainability objectives. This particular case study serves as a model for other organizations seeking to enhance their environmental stewardship while also realizing cost efficiencies.24,510 LBS
CO2 POLLUTION ELIMINATED ANNUALLY
3 YEAR
FILTER EFFECTIVENESS
42,000 LBS
OVERVIEW
Recognized worldwide for its iconic films, the studio also nurtures a culture that emphasizes innovation, diversity, and
environmental stewardship. It is committed to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices into both operations and
storytelling. In recent years, the studio has intensified its efforts to achieve Zero Waste to Landfill certification, a process that requires diverting at least 90% of waste from landfills. As of 2025, it has successfully diverted over 87% of its campus-wide waste, positioning itself as a leader in corporate sustainability.
CHALLENGE
Despite significant progress in waste diversion, the studio identified an area with substantial environmental impact: disposable HVAC filters. These filters, typically replaced quarterly, contributed approximately 2,800 pounds of waste annually. The operations team recognized an opportunity to further reduce landfill contributions by adopting a more sustainable solution.
Project
Leading Animation Studio
Location
Southern California
Use case
Large Multi-Building Campus
Equipment
Rooftop Units
SOLUTION
The studio partnered with K&N Engineering, a company renowned for its high-performance, washable, and reusable filters. K&N’s filters are designed for longevity and can be cleaned and reused for years, significantly reducing waste and the frequency of replacements. The pilot program involved replacing traditional disposable HVAC filters across the studio’s campus with K&N’s washable filters. This initiative aligned with their sustainability goals and offered a practical solution to further minimize environmental impact.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The adoption of K&N washable filters enabled the studio to divert an additional 1% of its waste from landfills annually,
contributing to its ongoing journey toward Zero Waste to Landfill certification. This initiative underscores the studio’s commitment to environmental responsibility and its proactive approach to sustainability.
This initiative also led to a dramatic reduction in associated carbon emissions. By eliminating the need for continuous delivery of disposable filters to the facility, the studio was able to reduce carbon emissions by over 98%. In real terms, this translated to the elimination of 25,410 pounds of carbon dioxide per year and 83,868 delivery miles driven over the life of the filters. This underscores their proactive approach to sustainability and its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
SOCIAL IMPACT
The studio has cultivated a culture where sustainability is integral to its identity. They offer internal sustainability tours and encourages employees to participate in initiatives that promote environmental stewardship. This hands-on involvement fosters a sense of pride and community among staff, reinforcing the company’s dedication to making a positive impact on the world.
The keys to success
While K&N’s washable filters require a higher initial investment compared to disposable alternatives, they offer long-term cost savings. The animation studio’s team demonstrated a payback period of less than three years on the initial investment, with expectations that the filters will remain effective for up to 10 years. This approach not only reduces waste but also leads to significant financial savings over time.
TRANSFORM YOUR FACILITY
FREE FILTERs FOR YOUR PILOT
Air filtration without hesitation. To demonstrate our confidence, K&N Global Filtration will supply FREE filters to jump start a pilot program in your facility.
Inquire below and connect with our Product Specialist for more details on the free pilot program and how to get started.
