This week, we had a long conversation with Elisabeth Dimitras, a passionate researcher, activist, and tiny house dweller who has dedicated her life to promoting sustainability and conscious living. After years of feeling out of place in urban settings, she made a bold decision to leave behind the city life in Athens and embrace a nomadic lifestyle that eventually led her to a tiny house on wheels in the stunning landscapes of Greece. Her journey began in 2018, inspired by the documentary “The Minimalists,” which introduced her to the joys of tiny house living and the concept of living off the grid. Elisabeth’s experiences as a volunteer animal caretaker and researcher have deeply influenced her commitment to vegan permaculture and sustainable practices, reflecting her desire to live in harmony with nature.
Elisabeth at her tiny house
Throughout her journey, Elisabeth has faced numerous challenges, from adjusting to rural life to navigating social isolation in a community that often doesn’t share her values. Yet, her resilience shines through as she continues to prioritize self-care, rest, and connection with like-minded individuals around the world. In this interview, she opens up about her transformative experiences, the lessons learned along the way, and her unwavering dedication to creating a more sustainable future for herself and the planet. Join us as we explore Elisabeth’s inspiring story of courage, compassion, and conscious living.
Tell us about your journey to living in a tiny house on wheels, off the grid. What inspired you to make this lifestyle change?
Everything started in 2018 while I was living in a small house in a Greek mountainous village with just 4 inhabitants. One day I watched the documentary “The Minimalists” where I first heard about the concept of a Tiny House on wheels and it was so interesting to listen to the people who were living in Tiny Houses because they were saying how happier they have been since they started living as such in comparison to living in the city in big houses.
The off the grid idea is something that I can’t tell you when I first heard about it but I was thinking that either I would construct a cob house or a Tiny House on wheels and I would live off the grid for sustainability reasons but also because I don’t believe in the current system and I don’t want to be part of it or support it in anyway.
At the time (early 2018), I had just felt the urge to leave the city because I was feeling that I don’t belong in the city nor in the society. I grew up in a suburb of Athens but I had also lived a semester in Montpellier, France & a semester in Lesvos island – for my masters – and later on in Almere, Holland – when I worked voluntarily through the EVS Erasmus+ program as an animal caretaker at Stichting AAP.
In hindsight, I can tell that what happened to me when I left the city is that I started seeing it with new eyes and I considered it for the first time as a concrete jungle. The pollution started annoying me. Both noise pollution and air pollution – and imagine that I wasn’t even in the centre but in a green suburb. But still, it was an urban setting.
So, I booked an Airbnb in that remote location of NW Greece and started living as a hermit with my pets. I was trail running every day with my dogs and it was the first time in my life that I was living remotely and exploring the mountains, because up until then, I was mostly attracted to the sea and visiting coastal areas.
Imagine that, for my masters, I had to go and live in a similar setting in 2011 because I was doing a thesis on bears, wolves and other mammals (and their use of the crossing structures under and over the Egnatia Highway), but I wasn’t enjoying life in the village back then. So, I was collecting the data from the camera traps and then going back to Athens or visiting friends in other places while I was working on my thesis. Back then, I wanted to do my thesis on cetaceans but I couldn’t find a reliable organisation doing such work in order to include me in their research so it felt like a compromise what I did instead.
In 2011, I just wasn’t ready to face myself and spend time alone & isolated back then. Whereas in 2018, I was more than ready to do the inner work and I was feeling very tired from people and at the same time disappointed by them, after my volunteer involvement in the refugee crisis, because most people were there for the wrong reasons and were doing more harm than good, to the refugees who were coming in Europe for a better life.
Anyway, long story short, without having this intention, I ended up living a nomadic life. I changed 26 houses in 6 countries (but mostly in Greece and in Spain), during the period 2018-2021, always with my 2 dogs and 1 cat. During this time, I decided to sell my house in Athens and I wanted to buy with this money a piece of land somewhere where I would install a Tiny House or build a cob house, to do what I am now actually doing.
If only I knew how hard this is though… But when you dream, you never imagine the challenges that may emerge from making the dream come true… It’s always greener on the other side, don’t they say?
How has your background as a volunteer animal caretaker and researcher influenced your decision to live sustainably and focus on vegan permaculture?
I think that the reasons which led me to this decision are not really related to these experiences. I mean, obviously when you love animals and take care of them for years, you are a person who wants to live close to nature, but I think what made me take this path is mostly the desire to live as much sustainably as possible, because during my studies in France, I realized that humans are causing the biggest harm to the planet and to other animals. I didn’t want to be part of the problem, but part of the solution.
Being an animal caretaker of wild animals ended up being something I can no longer do because: A) You have to feed meat to most wild animals and B) Most rescued wild animals are captive and rarely can be reintroduced in nature so they live their whole lives in captivity and this doesn’t give me joy as it’s something less bad than their previous experience. As a result, I started volunteering in farm sanctuaries where I could see animals enjoying their inherent value without being exploited by anyone and at the same time, I wasn’t hoping for something better for them because this is the ideal for these animals.
Elisabeth with Misoy and Roady
However, I have come to understand that domesticated animals will always be dependent on humans which means that they will never be liberated. In addition, animal care consists of vaccinating, applying chemical products on the skin of the animals etc. All these products are most probably made after being tested on some animals. This is something that makes me feel that I no longer want to be part of it, so I think that if we purely love non-human animals, it’s better to live in a natural setting where we can enjoy random encounters with free wild animals, rather than being on a constant hands on “policy” with rescued animals. Otherwise, we are unwillingly supporting practices and products which otherwise we wouldn’t.
Photo by Hisilicon Balong
Being a researcher has made me get to know things that I wish I wouldn’t. For example, solar panels and their batteries are made after a lot of extraction. They are also contributing to unfair job conditions and to environmental destruction. So, am I indeed living more ethically nowadays or is it just what I am telling myself?
Your journey involves a significant shift from urban living to a more rural, off-grid lifestyle. What were some of the biggest adjustments you had to make, and how did you overcome them?
This went smoothly and slowly. When I first moved to that remote village, I had to start making bread myself because it wasn’t affordable to drive to the nearest city/town in order to get some whenever I needed! This made me realize how spoiled I had been in my life until that day.
Where I am now, I may be in a remote location but the village is 10’ drive by car and 20-30’ by bike so if I need something it’s not that hard to get.
However, being vegan & following a low waste lifestyle makes things a bit hard to get in rural Greece. Although I am grateful for the Mediterranean cuisine which is mostly inherently plant-based, there are no vegan restaurants nearby so if I ever want to enjoy a vegan meal, which wouldn’t be full with olive oil (typical with the traditional Greek plant-based dishes) I must drive 1.5 hours to go to Athens. Furthermore, because I only use cruelty-free detergents, soaps etc. I order from vegan/zero waste shops in Athens as well. Especially for detergents, all these years while I was living a nomadic life in places farther away than now, I had to go to Athens every six months in order to refill my detergents!
My highest priority is to stay aligned to my values and this comes at a cost because sadly all these products are still more expensive than what you can find in a typical supermarket (I rarely go to supermarkets though; I prefer the open market with local farmers and to support small shops). When I first left Athens, it was impossible to find toilet paper in paper packages for example, but now it’s not! Even in rural Greece I can find this. But not in the village nearby. It needs good programming for errands. Another hard part of living as such is socializing. Maybe this is the hardest.
I am surrounded by hunters, shepherds and people who live a life in a sense of “business as usual”. Also, there is a lot of animal abuse (mostly passive, dogs living their whole lives chained) and littering the environment. All this is painful to experience on a daily basis so I often feel that I want to migrate to a country where at least some of these things aren’t a daily routine. And eventually I will do it, at least in a way to live 6 months in Northern Europe and 6 months here, when the summer will become unbearable here.
Luckily though, where I came to live, 9 months later I met a wonderful man who is now my partner and we agree on everything. But we feel lonely in our values here. Being childfree by choice, having pledged flightfree while you are already vegan and ecologically conscious, makes you an alien here. I try to overcome this by joining zoom meetings with people around the world who are spiritually and value-wise in the same level as me, because I need to nourish my soul with such contacts.
Misoy and Melo outside the tiny house, February 2024
Finally, a big problem is vets. Vets nearby are not as competent as in Athens. And they are more expensive. This is something I can only adjust with. I try to do my own research though and help my pets with natural remedies instead (which again must be ordered so my carbon footprint is not as low as I would like it to be).
Another challenge is when it’s snowing. I get stuck here for 3-4 days until the snow melts. The first year it was OK, I was prepared. I try to stay informed by looking at the weather forecast. The 2nd year though, my younger dog got sick and I couldn’t take him to a vet nor go buy meds. Thankfully someone who lives in the capital of the island bought us the meds and my partner went to meet him to collect them, and then left his car on the asphalt and walked 1 km to bring the meds to me. The next day he came again to pick me up, take me to his place where I could shower because the water wasn’t coming to the house as the pipes were frozen! I was melting snow in a pan on the stove…to wash dishes, and I had to unplug the fridge, and let the stuff from the fridge outside where the temperature was like a fridge’s (because I deny having a generator as a plan B). This year it didn’t snow…
Living off the grid means you can’t have an ADSL internet connection so I couldn’t take on a shitty job that I found to do for some time, because things are tight lately, because they wanted me to have specifically this type of internet. My internet works just fine so I don’t understand why this is a rule for them but the result is that I am still unemployed.
How do you prioritize rest and self-care in your daily routine?
To sleep well and to take good care of my pets are my top priorities.
I lost so much sleep while at school and during university years but even more while I was involved in the refugee crisis, that I no longer allow this, since 2018. As a result, I sleep A LOT and without any guilt. I know now that rest is resistance – against the grind culture & capitalism, so I never use alarms, I don’t wear a watch and when I sleep, I have my phone on flight mode.
13 January 2023
I often uninstall Instagram (or even deactivate the account), I no longer use Facebook and I spend some days with my phone on flight mode during the whole day. The ideal would be to take days off from using the laptop as well, but this is not as easy when you are looking for a job to sustain ongoing emerging needs (what I am doing since I came here…with no luck) or when you have a health issue of an animal and you are looking for ways to help them…Also I need to use the laptop or my phone in order to listen to the music so this is something I would like to find other ways to do so. I don’t like my dependence on technology but I can’t live without music.
Another way is that I do yoga, specifically kundalini yoga. Some days I listen to mantras and chant all day long. Or I am listening to Chantress Seba , Malte Marten and other similar artists. Sound baths are so healing.
I also try to spend days hiking in some areas nearby, a forest bath or Shinrin-yoku as the Japanese say, is the ideal way for me to disconnect from the madness of the world and rest my mind.
Finally, I swim all year round. This is helping my nervous system very much. I prefer winter swimming though because sadly from May until September beaches start getting crowded and most people are noisy, they litter and they don’t respect the others around them…
I am blessed to live on an island where in a 40’ drive I can be in the Aegean Sea and in a 40’ drive towards the other side, there is Alpine scenery.
Can you share some of the challenges you’ve faced and lessons you’ve learned on your journey towards conscious living and sustainability?
The most important lesson is that I will never achieve the ideal. I can’t be perfect. Especially as long as I am using a car which is necessary where I live at the moment, mostly because of my dogs.
I try to buy everything in bulk but some things we just can’t find in bulk. It’s Okay though. No one is perfect. I try to stop shaming me if I buy something that’s not fully aligned to my values.
In the past I wasn’t allowing myself to buy mushrooms if I couldn’t find them in bulk or I was never buying plant-based milk because of the package (recycling in Greece isn’t working effectively). I was trying to achieve a zero-waste lifestyle. It’s not possible though. Low waste is okay too.
Olive harvest
When I go to the supermarket to get the toilet paper in paper package that I mentioned, I see what other people buy and what is there on the shelves and I wonder “why do I put so much energy and effort in this lifestyle while others just keep living as always and buying meat, dairy, stuff in plastic etc.?” I feel hopeless at these moments.
So, I now allow myself sometimes to make mistakes while in the past I wasn’t doing so. Some examples:
I can get myself a drink in a single use paper cup if I have forgotten my reusable mug.
I can use silicone to cover gaps while I construct something.
I tried to make this Tiny House 100% vegan and eco but it wasn’t possible to find wood in Greece with FSC certification for example. I brought vegan paint from the U.K and wooden insulation from Romania but how about silicone rubber? It’s needed. And it’s not eco.
Tiny home 2023
My partner recently constructed a shed for me and we had to use 4 bottles of this awful product. I don’t feel well with this but there is no other way to keep it insulated so the rain won’t come in (we installed in the shed the inverter, charger and batteries of the solar panels which until now were exposed to heat, on the side of the Tiny house, so it’s very important that no water will ever come in).
Challenges arise all the time. When I decided to live off the grid, I wasn’t expecting temperatures of 45 degrees…I only put a fan on the ceiling. Now I am about to install an air conditioner even if I didn’t want to. But it’s necessary if I want to protect my dogs from a heat stroke. I try to allow myself these kinds of setbacks.
Holiday in Messinia
Last year, I was left with no water during the heatwaves – because apparently this is a possible scenario when you are dependent on rainwater… while I had to keep alive 60 pumpkins and a veggie garden along with many newly planted trees. It was 1.5 months of constant stress. We had to bring water from elsewhere, daily. My partner and I, daily were carrying 10 plastic packages filled with 12L of water each (we were refilling them, we didn’t buy them) to bring here and water the plants. Also, I paid two other people with barrels (can’t find the right word for this vehicle) to come and fill my tanks so I could have some water in the house…. This was a very unfortunate incident that made me think small this year. I only planted a very small veggie garden and I will be observing how things will go during this summer. This was the biggest challenge. And when we overcame it, depression, grief and anxiety came. But I worked through the trauma, and I still do, hoping to become stronger and more resilient.
In your experience, how has living in harmony with nature and practicing vegan permaculture enhanced your connection to the environment and the world around you?
Vegan permaculture is very hard to achieve. You must observe each plant and try to find ways to keep insects away, without harming them. One day someone recommended that I make a liquid with water, soap and garlic if I remember well, to keep the ants away from corn. But it killed them. I felt terrible. Another day, I was putting wood on the stove and hundreds of ants came out of a piece of wood that was on the stove…I just left it out and I felt relieved that I hadn’t put it in the fire.
First year’s veggie garden
Each time I have to cut the weeds with the bush-cutter I feel awful again.
I am not sure how someone with my level of empathy can achieve this lifestyle without a constant feeling of guilt.
These experiences made me wonder if I am indeed capable of keeping living like this.
Also, I can’t really enjoy the beauty of birds, snakes, turtles … .as I have been living with 2 dogs and a cat. My younger dog recently found a poor turtle and was behaving to her as if she was a ball… I actually went down to see which ball he was playing with as they were in the house but he was out. I felt so bad for the turtle. Thankfully she wasn’t hurt but imagine the stress she went through.
When I walk them, if I see a snake, I have to go away because if it’s a viper, it’s dangerous.
And last year my cat killed a small bird, which made me cry so much. In addition to the moles that she constantly hunts and I constantly try to stop her from doing so.
I want to provide water to the birds who I have attracted because through planting perennials and flowers, insects came which as a result attract birds – and I need to find a way to do it without my cat being able to harm them.
If we genuinely love nature and the other animals, it’s very hard to enjoy interaction with them – as long as we live with pets. And this is a very sad realization because I can’t imagine myself living without pets.
This has made me decide that I won’t adopt again, at least animal species who are omnivores and carnivores.
Because I want to be able to observe the animal kingdom without the constant fear of keeping my pets away as they are destructive towards other animals.
I still don’t know if I will achieve it though. Maybe if I start volunteering again, in sanctuaries and having this place as my safe refuge for time to rest between volunteer experiences? But how will I live here without my pets’ company? They are my extension and their passing is the only thing I can’t get ready for, nor can I imagine myself without them. They bring joy and love, on a daily basis.
In the past, I was saying that I will rescue some goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys…and they will be happy here. But if I do this, I will constantly have the fear of a viper coming and killing them, or of a fox doing so – and I can’t keep living in fear and anxiety. In addition to the fear of a wildfire…
I must make an important decision one day….
As the founder of Ethos & Empathy, could you tell us more about your organization’s mission and the initiatives you’re currently involved in?
Ethos & Empathy was founded in 2017, and the goal was to promote in Greece anti-speciesism, the zero-waste movement and the idea of fair trade. I was still in Athens when I started it, so some in person actions were arranged too, through it, but then I left to start living remotely.
At that time, I had people who I trusted to coordinate actions in Athens. In 2018 we did for the world day for the end of speciesism an action in many areas in Greece, giving out leaflets talking about speciesism and later on I coordinated with the help of some volunteers the most successful animal rights march that has ever taken place in Greece.
Later on, E & E took part in some actions & meetings with WWF Greece and Greenpeace, but we soon after stopped trying to cooperate with huge NGOs who clearly won’t ever embrace anti-speciesism and have such a hard time to talk openly against animal agriculture.
So, in combination with COVID19, me leaving for Spain and already working remotely for anti-speciesist NGOs, it eventually transformed to “just” an online platform, an encyclopaedia for whoever wants to start living more ethically. It has a vegan directory that helps many people, and lists with documentaries &films and books (under the column ‘useful links’) for whoever wants to get informed on matters related to animal rights. I try to keep these lists up to date.
So far, in the Greek version, more than 80 articles have been published translated in Greek by volunteers -to whom I feel very grateful- and some 20+ articles / essays have been written by me and other activists or scholars / academics.
In the beginning, I wanted to give it a legal form and I tried to gather 19 more people to make it an association but it was extremely hard to find as many people with whom I would agree on everything so I left it as an initiative without a legal form. Majority of these people were absorbed by vegan capitalism and are constantly flying around while I realized that capitalism is the root cause of most suffering so we couldn’t continue together. Ever since, I sadly haven’t met any other Greek people to fit in E & E and my mindset. I mostly can relate with foreigners, because I grew up surrounded by foreigners (my parents were bringing “au pair” from Australia, New Zealand, USA and France who were living with us during my childhood)
As you can probably imagine, this has made me a very unpopular person within the vegan community in Greece. Sadly, most vegan people are obsessed with packaged vegan products which are also not healthy, and they only talk about non-human animals and vegan products, vegan restaurants etc. They gather in vegan festivals and that’s it. You won’t hear many vegan people in Greece speaking about Palestine, Sudan or Congo. And they won’t give up on flying.
Also, I won’t forget how many vegans were celebrating a horrible accident that happened to a man (who by the way was an immigrant from Pakistan) in a slaughterhouse who was grinded in the machine that grinds chickens. I felt such repulsion when I read the comments of these vegan people. I don’t like to use the word ‘vegan’ to self-identify to be honest. I don’t hate humans. And especially humans who are forced to do horrible jobs because they don’t have any other choice. I acknowledge my privilege and I try to be mindful when I speak about this issue. In fact, I have 2 posts on the website, they are in English too, on how these people (who work in slaughterhouses and fishing boats) are victims as well.
Εthos & Empathy may have come to a full circle. Lately, I am more interested in talking about eco anxiety, eco grief, degrowth and slow living but for the first two, again, no one else is talking about them, here in Greece so I am not sure there is an actual audience out there to feel that it’s worth to put the effort into translating all that. Although I know that all these subjects can go under the umbrella of Ethos & Empathy, I don’t have the energy anymore to keep writing or to look for volunteer translators.
I burnt out and only realized it two years ago while speaking to a Chinese Traditional Medicine practitioner about my younger dog’s kidney condition and he pointed it out to me. Better say, I suffer from compassion fatigue so I try to take things really slowly ever since. I try to rest more, I try not to feel that I must save all stray animals that I encounter, and overall that I am not going to change the world. As a result, I haven’t written anything since last January.
Living off the grid and growing food needs a whole lot of energy so there is really not much time left to sit down and write…especially when life threatening situations keep happening, due to the climate breakdown.
I am currently taking an online FREE webinar called “Active Hope” which I recommend to whoever experiences eco anxiety & eco grief. It’s based on Joanna Macy’s book with the same name, Active Hope. She has one more that I want to read soon, which is called ‘Coming back to Life’. I need to read it!
Elisabeth with her cat Tsifki
If I feel that I have the capacity, I may bring the work that reconnects in Greece. This is my wish at the moment, and I am working on it by attending webinars hosted by the WTR network. I feel that this is the path I should take now and maybe I will start by translating some content in Greek and post it on Ethos & Empathy. But really slowly, at my own pace. Because maybe it’s too early for Greek people to get introduced to such profound work. Not sure yet. Still contemplating on it. Because Greek people have been in a constant survival mode since 2009 when the financial crisis started, then the pandemic, now the climate…. And when you are in survival mode, there is no time nor mental capacity to do such work.
I have tried to see if there is any interest, through IG, but didn’t see much interest at least when it comes to eco anxiety and eco grief.
People are absorbed by the dominant systems, numbed by too much info and screen time, and also very much self-absorbed … .in this time of a poly crisis, to go against the current, needs a lot of resilience, persistence…. And sometimes I think I must just rest for a whole year – but then again, I feel that I can’t just rest while the world is on fire(..).
Can you share some tips or resources for our readers who are interested in learning more about vegan permaculture, minimalism, and conscious living?
Having lost my mother in 2008 while I was just 22 and she was my only caregiver, made me have to face a whole load of (mostly unnecessary) stuff that she was collecting and left behind – this has been a great lesson in my life. I keep saying to people “Stop collecting stuff! Who is going to deal with them after you die?”. I managed to donate her 2000 books to a bookshop run by an ex-homeless man who now helps other homeless people by selling books. I donated a lot of stuff to NGOs for their bazaars but I had to also throw stuff at some point and it was with a heavy heart.
But I feel so much lighter since I only have a few things. We really don’t need a lot to be happy. On the contrary.
Where can our audience follow along with your journey and learn more about your work?
Ethos & Empathy (the blog post from January 2023 tells a lot about my decision to live off the grid, grow food, how I turned into medicinal plants etc. and it also has many resources from books and podcasts that have influenced me lately).
This is part of a series where Green & Beyond Mag explores the stories and takes a peek at the lifestyles of incredible people like green entrepreneurs, innovators, climate advocates, activists, community leaders, and content creators, all around the world, who love the planet and are working tirelessly to make the world a better place.
As the world gathered at COP29 to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, a vibrant group of young negotiators stood at the forefront, ready to make their voices heard. This year, the Youth Negotiators Academy (YNA) brought together over 100 passionate young leaders from diverse backgrounds and countries, each armed with their unique stories and aspirations. Since its launch in 2022, YNA has trained more than 400 youth negotiators from 63 countries, with a strong emphasis on representation from the Global South.
A Mission Fueled by Passion
At the heart of YNA’s mission is a powerful vision – to transform multilateral decision-making by fostering a culture of cooperation across generations.
Co-founder Veena Balakrishnan reflects on this mission, saying, “With YNA’s founding, for me, it was about addressing a systemic issue. I wanted to understand why we weren’t seeing enough amazing people like me in positions of power.”
This desire to change the narrative drives YNA’s commitment to nurturing a community of effective young negotiators who can deliver inclusive and impactful outcomes.
YNA Co-founders Marie-Claire Graf and Veena Balakrishnan on Day 3 of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan
Among these young leaders is Emmanuel Prado, a political scientist from Costa Rica. With a deep passion for climate action and ocean policy, Emmanuel shares how he became involved in negotiations: “I feel so optimistic about the role we are currently playing in these discussions.”
He represents Costa Rica at COP29, where he aims to emphasize the need for resources dedicated to climate adaptation – a critical area for his country facing increasing climate challenges.
The diversity among YNA’s participants is striking. Each negotiator brings their own experiences and insights shaped by their home countries’ unique challenges. Emmanuel Elogima Vandi, representing Sierra Leone, speaks passionately about his motivation: “My commitment stems from addressing the adverse effects of climate change on vulnerable communities.”
He highlights Sierra Leone’s struggles with extreme weather events that threaten livelihoods and emphasizes the importance of securing funding for sustainable development projects.
Source: Youth Negotiators Academy (YNA), COP29
In Jordan, Rahma Al-Rafayia faces her own set of challenges. Growing up in a country grappling with water scarcity and desertification, she is determined to advocate for international support for climate adaptation initiatives.
“Through effective negotiation and collaboration, we can address the urgent challenges posed by climate change,” she asserts.
Rahma’s journey reflects the hope and urgency that young negotiators bring to COP29.
YNA’s programs are designed not just to educate but to empower. Through intensive training sessions, participants gain essential skills in negotiation and policy analysis while building a supportive network of like-minded youth leaders.
Emmanuel Prado shares how this preparation has impacted him: “There was a lot of mental health support that we developed thanks to the program. I felt very included in the community-building process.”
Marie-ClaireGraf, another co-founder of YNA, emphasizes that empowering young people means ensuring they have genuine opportunities to engage in decision-making processes.
“I wanted to ensure that young people had a seat at the table as delegates representing their countries,” she explains. This commitment resonates deeply with all YNA participants as they navigated complex negotiations at COP29.
YNA Co-founders Marie-Claire Graf, COP29, Baku, Azerbaijan
A Call for Action
As these young negotiators engage in discussions that will shape their futures, they carry with them not only their hopes but also a sense of responsibility. Emmanuel Elogima Vandi encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: “Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and urgency to climate negotiations.” Their involvement ensures that policies reflect the needs and concerns of future generations.
“By actively participating in the negotiation process, young negotiators can strengthen trust in these systems and revitalize their purpose.”
– Veena Balakrishnan, Co-founder, Youth Negotiators Academy (YNA)
This belief is what drives each participant as they work tirelessly to advocate for ambitious climate actions that prioritize sustainability and equity.
Source: Youth Negotiators Academy (YNA), COP29, Baku, Azerbaijan
A Future Built Together
The Youth Negotiators Academy is more than just an organization; it is a movement towards inclusivity and empowerment in global climate discussions. As these young leaders step onto the world stage at COP29, they are not just representatives of their countries – they are champions for justice, innovation, and collaboration.
With their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to meaningful change, the young negotiators embody hope for a sustainable future. As they continue their journey beyond COP29, one thing is certain: they are ready to lead us toward a better tomorrow – together.
What if I told you that you can be part of events at COP29 that are filled with fun and inspiring activities like art, music, and storytelling – all dedicated to fighting climate change? The Entertainment + Culture Pavilion ( E+C Pavilion ) is back at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan with a series of unforgettable events, promising an unparalleled experience that intertwines creativity, culture, and climate action. This year is different, as the platform does not have its own dedicated space in the Blue Zone at COP like last year, but it remains a vibrant hub of creativity and activism. So, if you’re contemplating whether to visit, let me assure you: this is a chance you simply cannot miss!
Just imagine being able to participate and engage in a lively atmosphere where art and activism come together, creating a powerful platform for change. This year, the E+C Pavilion is co-organizing and supporting a wide range of events both inside and outside the Blue Zone, not only showcasing the diverse voices of artists, activists, and thought leaders from around the globe catalyzing their creativity for the planet, but also enabling you to learn how to do it yourself!
Exciting Events to Attend
Mark your calendars for these incredible events co-hosted by the E+C Pavilion:
🟠 CULTURE x CLIMATE FORUM: Mapping Constellations for Action and Understanding
📅 Thursday, November 14, 2024, 9:00 – 18:00 📍 Tusi-Bohm Planetarium, Park Bulvar 🎟️ Register here 🤝 Co-organized by The Convergence & E+C Pavilion
🔵 THREADS OF CHANGE: Sustainable Fashion Show for Climate Action
📅 Monday, November 18, 2024, 16:30 – 17:30 📍 Thailand Pavilion, Blue Zone (Accreditation required) 🤝 Co-organized by Thailand Youth Climate Council (TYCC), TTALAB, Global Alliances of Universities for Climate (GUAC) & E+C Pavilion
🔵 CULTURE DAY: Innovation To Advance Culture-Based Climate Action
📅 Tuesday, November 19, 2024, 9:30 – 16:00 📍 Digital Innovation Pavilion, Blue Zone (Accreditation required) 🤝 Co-organized by Glocha, IAAI & E+C Pavilion
These events will celebrate the intersection of culture and climate action while providing opportunities for collaboration and networking.
Engage with Global Voices
During the E+C Pavilion events at COP29, you’ll have the chance to engage directly with artists and activists who are leading the charge for climate action in their communities. The diverse representation ensures that the narratives shared are impactful and inclusive.
One of the standout features of the platform’s activities is their dedication to celebrating cultural heritage. Expect performances that showcase traditional art forms while addressing contemporary issues related to climate change. This fusion of past and present honors cultural identities while emphasizing their relevance in today’s global challenges.
Experience Climate Joy
In a world often overshadowed by climate anxiety, the E+C Pavilion aims to infuse joy into climate action. Expect events designed not just to inform but also to uplift and inspire hope. Through culture, art, and shared experiences, attendees will leave feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed.
As we gather in Baku, we’ll be reminded that we are not alone in this fight. The collective energy at these events will serve as a powerful reminder that together, we can create meaningful change. Each exciting event will echo one central message: hope is alive, and action is possible. Mark your calendars for these transformative events co-hosted by the E+C Pavilion in Baku. It’s an opportunity to be part of something larger than ourselves – a movement fueled by creativity, culture, and collective action against climate change.
So are you ready to explore inspiring activities that blend fun with purpose? Don’t miss out on this unique experience at COP29; come ready to be inspired and equipped to make a difference!
In the heart of Rwanda, a transformative journey unfolded as seven remarkable women picked up their cameras to tell powerful stories of resilience in the face of climate change. Through a recent program by Lensational and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Global Network, these women not only captured the challenges their communities face but also highlighted their own strength and determination to drive change.
A Personal Journey of Empowerment
Imagine being a single mother, a farmer, or an advocate for women’s rights in a country where climate change is reshaping lives and landscapes. Each of these women, with their unique backgrounds and experiences, embraced the opportunity to document their realities. They were not just telling stories; they were sharing pieces of their hearts, revealing the intimate struggles and triumphs that define their lives.
The Stories They Told
1. “A Family’s Journey Back to Life as it Once Were Before Landslide” by Clementine Twizerimana
From the left: Photographer Clementine Twizerimana and a photograph she captured of Generosa Hategekimana
In her poignant story, Clementine tells the tale of 63-year-old Generosa Hategekimana, who faced a devastating landslide that destroyed her home. Generosa’s resilience shines through as she rallies friends and family to rebuild her life after enduring years of hardship as a single mother.
2. “In Search of Water in Rwanda Bugesera: Clementine Murekeyosi’s Story” by Ange Mutoni
From the left: Photographer Ange Mutoni and a photograph she captured of Clementine Murekeyosi
With this story, Ange shares the struggles of Clementine Murekeyosi, a survivor of the genocide who faces increasing challenges in securing water for her family in the drought-stricken Eastern Province. The photographs illustrate the harsh realities of life in a region where water is becoming increasingly scarce.
3. “How a Farming Couple in Rwanda, Nyamagabe, is Adapting to Changing Seasons” by Vestine Muhawenimana
From the left: Photographer Vestine Muhawenimana and a photograph she captured of Martha Mukarwego and family
In this photo story, Vestine documents the journey of Martha Mukarwego and her husband, who are adapting their farming practices in response to climate change. Martha’s innovative approach to farming, including growing coffee, showcases her determination to provide for her family.
4. “Embracing Resilience: The Journey of Musabende Esperance” by Liliane Izere
From the left: Photographer Liliane Izere and a photograph she captured of Musabende Esperance
Liliane’s story focuses on Esperance, who steps up to support her family after her husband becomes ill following a landslide. Esperance’s journey reflects her strength and resourcefulness as she finds new ways to generate income for her family.
5. “Overcoming Erosion: Mukandamage Francine’s Journey” by Rosarie Dusabimana
From the left: Photographer Rosarie Dusabimana and a photograph she captured of Mukandamage Francine
Rosarie captures the story of Francine Mukandamage, a mother of four who faces the challenges of soil erosion. With government support and a local resource group, Francine learns climate-smart agriculture techniques, demonstrating her determination to sustain her family.
6. “Tending the Harvest: The Resilience of Nyirabugingo Celine” by Josiane Mukeshimana
From the left: Photographer Josiane Mukeshimana and a photograph she captured of Nyirabugingo Celine
Josiane Mukeshimanatells the story of Celine Nyirabugingo, whose dream of becoming a large-scale farmer is threatened by climate change. Despite facing crop diseases and financial challenges, Celine remains committed to providing for her family and creating opportunities for others in her community.
7. “Navigating Wetland Safety Challenges: The Resilience of Niyibizi Muhamadu” by Diannah Munezero
From the left: Photographer Diannah Munezero and a photograph she captured of Niyibizi Muhamadu and family
Diannah shares the story of Niyibizi and his wife Farida, who lost everything when they figured that their home was built on flood-prone land. Together, they work to rebuild their lives, showcasing the strength of their family bond.
These women’s stories are more than just photographs; they are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As Carola C., Content and Media Coordinator at Lensational, noted, “Upon completion of the stories, we noticed that each photographer had included somehow the strength and resilience of a woman from their community, emphasizing, as a whole, the impactful role of women in driving change.” By presenting their work to Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment, they are not only advocating for their communities but also ensuring that women’s voices are heard in the conversation about climate change.
Through this initiative, Lensational and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Global Network have empowered these women to become storytellers, advocates, and leaders in their communities. Their journeys remind us that even in the face of adversity, there is strength in sharing our stories and a collective power in driving change.
As we reflect on their experiences, we are inspired by the courage and determination of these women. They are not just surviving; they are thriving, and their stories will resonate far beyond the borders of Rwanda, encouraging others to join the fight for a sustainable future.
Founded on International Women’s Day in 2013, Lensational is an award-winning nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to empowering women through photography. With a global network of volunteers, Lensational tailors its programs to the unique lives and challenges faced by women in various regions, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. The organization provides photography training, enabling women to create compelling photo stories that reflect their lived experiences and advocate for change. Notably, 60% of the income generated from licensing these images goes directly to the photographers, ensuring that their voices are not just heard but also financially supported.
The fight against climate change demands a multifaceted approach, one that harnesses innovation, collaboration, and, perhaps most surprisingly, culture. The Entertainment + Culture Pavilion (E+C Pavilion) is a dynamic platform that blends culture with climate action. It made its much-anticipated debut in the Asia-Pacific region on June 28, 2024, setting the stage for a transformative event in Bangkok, Thailand. Building on the momentum generated by the Creatives for Climate Action – Thailand (CCAT) conference, the E+C Pavilion unfolded at Bangkok 1899. This two-day event marked a significant expansion of the Pavilion’s global footprint, following its successful launch at COP28 in Dubai.
The E+C Bangkok Pavilion was not just another climate conference. It became a vibrant hub filled with creativity, where artists, activists, and cultural leaders converged to explore the transformative power of culture in shaping a sustainable future. Co-designed with organizations like Creative Migration, Bangkok 1899, Sauntr Media, The Convergence, Green & Beyond Magazine, and Love Frankie, the program offered a dynamic mix of activities.
The event took place at Bangkok 1899, a cultural and civic hub established by Creative Migration, an international arts organization based in Bangkok and Los Angeles. This historic location, once the home of Chao Phraya Thammasakmontri, the father of Thailand’s modern education, was designed by Italian architect Mario Tamagno under King Rama VI.
A Look at Day One of the Entertainment + Culture Bangkok Pavilion
Culture is central to climate action, and the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion thrives on this idea. The first day’s programming showcased the vibrancy and impact of the event.
Catalyzing Culture-Based Climate Action in Thailand Reception
The event started with a reception for local ministerial authorities and representatives from the UNFCCC RCC in the Asia-Pacific region. Key stakeholders, including Michael Schmeiser (Deputy Head of Mission at the Austrian Embassy in Bangkok and President of the EUNIC Cluster in Thailand), Jens Radschinski (Regional Expert on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and Carbon Pricing at UNFCCC/IGES Regional Collaboration Centre for Asia and the Pacific (RCC-AP) ), Susannah Tantemsapya (Founder & Executive Director of Bangkok 1899 and Creative Migration), Daniel Cervenka and Elise Orlowski (The Convergence), and Gunjan Nanda and Samuel Rubin (Co-Founders of the E+C Pavilion), discussed the importance of incorporating culture into climate action to develop effective solutions to the climate crisis.
Panel Talk on Culture and Climate
A compelling panel discussion was hosted by Kamori Osthananda, a Climate Youth Negotiator at COP29 and Thai Youth Delegate at COP28. Speakers such as Kanitha Kasina-Ubol (Managing Director of The Siam Society Under Royal Patronage), Moe Moe Lwin (Vice-Chairwoman of Seacha and Co-Chair of the Culture@COP28 Working Group), and Sasiyada Naowanonsha (Diplomat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Thai Delegate at SB60) shared their insights on the importance of including culture in the climate movement from Thailand’s and Southeast Asia’s perspectives.
Mapping Entertainment and Culture for Climate Action in Thailand
This strategic session, hosted by the UNFCCC’s Sectoral Initiative Entertainment and Culture for Climate Action (ECCA), focused on mapping out the future of entertainment and cultural initiatives in climate action, fostering strategies and partnerships. Facilitated by Gunjan Nanda, Samuel Rubin, and Susannah Tantemsapya, the discussion included insights from Fah Bhawika (Thailand Ambassador of Tocco), Saengchai Chitboonthaweesuk (Business Development Manager of Sahachai Promotion Co., Ltd.), and Suthavee Pangkanon (Co-Founder of Meta Absolute Co., Ltd.). They shared their environmental initiatives, discussed best practices in sustainable production, and identified opportunities for improvement in Thailand.
Gamifying Climate Action
In an interactive gamification session, Gunjan Nanda demonstrated how gamifying climate actions could make climate communication more engaging and effective. The session was followed by a couple rounds of the game Chatty Changemakers that enabled participants to not only connect among themselves but also have important conversations surrounding their climate advocacy journey.
Impact Storytelling Workshop
Led by Daniel Cervenka and Elise Orlowski from The Convergence, the Impact Storytelling Workshop highlighted the power of narrative in driving climate action. Daniel emphasized the unique role of films in fostering empathy and bridging diverse communities, underscoring their potential to generate real-world impact, such as influencing national energy policies. Elise echoed this sentiment, drawing parallels between cultural events and storytelling, and encouraging participants to harness their own narrative abilities. The workshop fostered an inclusive environment where attendees, regardless of their background, could share insights and learn practical storytelling techniques. This collective approach aimed to amplify the voices of various communities, ensuring that their stories resonate and inspire actionable change beyond the event.
Crystal Bowl Sound Healing
The day concluded with a meditation session of crystal bowl sound healing led by Borriboon Suklertnuntakij, helping participants relax and refocus. The session was a generous donation from Community Lab and Sati Space.
A Gateway to Global Participation
The first day of the E+C Bangkok Pavilion underscored the transformative potential of culture in addressing climate change. Through a diverse array of activities, from insightful panel discussions to interactive workshops, the event showcased how cultural engagement can foster innovative solutions and drive impactful climate action. Key stakeholders and experts shared practical examples and strategies, emphasizing the importance of integrating creative expression and storytelling into climate communication.
By bringing together artists, activists, business leaders, and policymakers, the Pavilion created a dynamic platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange. This event not only highlighted the significance of cultural perspectives in global climate dialogues but also prepared local institutions for a more active role at COP29. The momentum generated on this first day promises to inspire further progress and strengthen the global movement for culture-based climate action.
Bangkok’s vibrant streets recently hosted a novel approach to climate action: one that harnessed the power of creativity and storytelling. The Entertainment + Culture Pavilion just made its first incursion in Southeast Asia with a pop-up presentation of this groundbreaking initiative, staged initially at COP28 in Dubai.
This program was designed with others such as Creative Migration, Bangkok 1899, Sauntr Media, The Convergence, Green & Beyond Magazine, and Love Frankie. In this manner, the program offered a vibrant combination of activities. It wasn’t your average climate conference. E+C Pavilion Bangkok, hosted in Bangkok 1899, became an exhilarating platform in one of the culturally rich venues in town. Artists, activists, and cultural leaders explored the different ways entertainment and culture could help shape a sustainable future.
The Entertainment + Culture Pavilion’s (E+C Pavilion) journey to Bangkok had deeper roots. It started with a simple notion: the struggle around climate change didn’t need to be an empirical and intellectual discussion about data and policy but cried out for the emotive power of stories, the unifying strength of music, and the imaginative spark of art. To find where creativity might matter, it developed the E+C Pavilion at COP28. This became a lively crossroad space where over a hundred events with artists from sixty different countries took place, reaching out to 22 million.
From COP28 to Bangkok: A Global Movement Takes Root
Energetic in every way, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion at COP28 in Dubai opened to symbolize the global hunger for creative solutions to the climate crisis. Over 100 programming events representing 60 countries provided a kaleidoscope of artistic viewpoints: from serious films to dynamic musical shows, not just driving awareness but exciting the world.
Behind the literal lights of the stage, a figurative movement emerged. Artists, activists, and policymakers from divergent backgrounds ignited in a common cause. Workshops allowed for co-creation and opened up new cross-disciplinary ideas on how storytelling and artistic expression could underpin new approaches to climate-impact communication and action. The E+C Pavilion seeded cross-sector partnerships and cracked open silos, laying the groundwork for a new conceptualization of environmental concerns.
This collaborative spirit wasn’t bound to Dubai. Realizing the need for regional presence, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion team paved the way to Southeast Asia. The vibrant cultural heart of Bangkok served as the stage to elevate Southeast Asian voices and their perspectives on climate action.
Bangkok 1899
Bridging the Gap: Entertainment + Culture Pavilion in the Spotlight in Bangkok
The journey to Bangkok for the E+C Pavilion was not a straight shot. Before captivating audiences in Southeast Asia, it made its presence felt at the SB60 intersessional negotiations of the UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn. This strategic intervention engaged policymakers and cultural organizations at a critical moment to guarantee cultural voices were included in high-level climate debates. Riding that wave, the E+C Pavilion docked in Bangkok, Thailand, in June 2024. In the throes of the bustling city, a vivid two-day program unfolded in Bangkok 1899—a historical, cultural, and civic forum. The symbolic location demonstrated how cultural heritage can help us link traditions with innovation in the fight against climate change.
The very nature of the program proved the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion’s core mission: fostering collaboration and amplifying diverse voices. It featured a dynamic mix of activities bringing together artists, activists, and cultural leaders from across Southeast Asia. The themes ranged from the power of storytelling in education to unlock the potential of creative industries to drive sustainable practices.
Jens Radschinski, from the UNFCC’s Regional Collaboration Center (Asia-Pacific), emphasized the importance of a culture-based approach in the climate movement: “This creative industry, of course, has many other channels to reach people and make them aware of what is happening in the climate and how people can get involved and really change the culture.”
Jens Radschinski, from the UNFCC’s Regional Collaboration Center (Asia-Pacific)
Michael Schmeiser, Deputy Head of Mission at the Austrian Embassy in Bangkok and the Current President of the EUNIC Cluster in Thailand highlighted the initiative’s significance in promoting intercultural dialogue between Europe and Thailand, focusing on urgent and shared issues like the climate crisis. He explained that the conference featured four segments: practical examples from Europe and Thailand, best practices in green initiatives, policy discussions with various ministries, and the development of a toolkit to help event organizers make their events more sustainable. Michael emphasized that the project was tailored to the Thai context and aimed to inspire other countries.
Michael Schmeiser, Deputy Head of Mission at the Austrian Embassy in Bangkok and Member of the EUNIC Cluster in Thailand
A Call to a Sustainable Future
The Bangkok edition of the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion was not a culmination but a springboard. It demonstrated that entertainment and culture are critical to addressing climate change. Using the emotional power of art, music, and film, the initiative transcended dry data and policy discussions, igniting a deeper connection with climate issues. It engaged cross-sector collaboration among artists, activists, policymakers, and cultural leaders, creating a new dialogue on both the problems of climate and the solutions. In this way, the E+C Pavilion’s presence in Dubai, Bonn, and Bangkok exemplified a commitment to a global conversation while ensuring regional voices are heard.
Going forward, the future of the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion is bright. Looking towards COP29 and beyond, it has the potential to continue shaping a sustainable future. Plans include scaling up, designing data-driven strategies, strengthening partnerships, and developing educational programs to prepare the new generation of climate activists. Bangkok’s E+C Pavilion was more than an event. It was a compelling call to arms, urging us to regard climate change through new eyes—where creativity and culture become formidable forces in building a new future for humankind—together as mightier elements of the cause.
Farzana Faruk Jhumu, a passionate Climate Activist hailing from Bangladesh, embodies a remarkable journey of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy. Her foray into climate activism traces back to a pivotal moment in 2018, sparked by a conversation among friends about societal impact and the privilege of making a difference. This catalyzed the inception of “Kaath Pencil,” a heartwarming initiative aimed at spreading joy and knowledge among underprivileged children through educational endeavors. Farzana’s narrative blends personal growth with a profound awakening to the urgency of climate action, fueled by encounters with communities bearing the enduring scars of environmental crises like Cyclone Sidr in 2007.
Farzana’s evolution as a climate advocate unfolds against the backdrop of grassroots engagement and global collaborations, notably with initiatives like Fridays for Future MAPA and the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. Her experiences at COP events, from COP26 to COP28, have honed her insights into the intricacies of climate policy and the imperative for decisive action. Through her role as a UNICEF Youth Advocate, Farzana champions youth empowerment, policy advocacy, and community resilience, embodying a vision of inclusive, impactful climate activism.
Photo credit : UNICEF Bangladesh
This interview delves into Jhumu’s remarkable journey, exploring her motivations, the challenges she faces, and the unwavering optimism that keeps her going. It’s a story that will inspire you to take action, no matter how small, and join the fight for a more sustainable future for all.
Can you please share a bit about your journey? How did you get involved in climate activism?
My climate activism journey started in 2018 when some of my younger brother’s friends and a few other friends were randomly discussing how privileged we were and that we should try to do something for society. I was completely on board, so later, we started a group called ‘Kaathpencil’ – our whole idea was ‘to make people happy.’ As we started KaathPencil, we began going to various schools for underprivileged children to provide them with free books. Then, around 6-7 months before COVID hit us, we started a school for children living in slums close to where I live. The school ran smoothly for 3-4 months, but sadly, we had to shut it down when COVID-19 happened.
While I was working on this project, connecting with the children, and figuring out what to teach them beyond the alphabet, I had also been educating myself on the climate crisis. This was especially true after hearing Greta Thunberg’s moving speech in 2018. I remember all those climate strikes and how climate change had become a central topic of discussion. While I was exploring and educating myself, there was one particular case I’ll always remember – a family that lost everything due to Cyclone Sidr in 2007 and had been living in this slum ever since.
Tropical Cyclone Sidr on the Bay of Bengal, November 2007 (Source: NASA Earth Observatory)
It was a long time ago, and I was very young at the time, so while I don’t have a lot of deep knowledge about Sidr, I still remember the massive electricity crisis that affected the whole of Bangladesh. We had no electricity in Dhaka for almost a couple of days. When the electricity came back, we only had one TV channel, BTV (Bangladesh Television), so I remember how glued we were to the TV, just listening to the news and wondering what was next. This experience left a significant impact on me.
While I never had to worry about that growing up, when I started talking to these families, specifically this family, it struck me how it had been over 12 years since Sidr and they were still suffering the consequences, even though so much money was raised for relief efforts. Later, I learned about Fridays for Future (FFF) and found out they had a chapter in Bangladesh through social media. I joined them, and upon joining, they asked if I could help maintain communication with the international community, to which I happily agreed.
Photo credit: Marie Jacquemin/Greenpeace
As I engaged with FFF’s larger chapter, I realized how different and vast their thought process was – they had a lot of knowledge about climate change and all the policies surrounding it. As FFF was growing around that time, we had many discussions on fundamental ideas, and I joined every single call. Being very new, I sometimes didn’t understand a lot of things in the beginning, but I participated anyway – I wanted to learn more and play a role.
Later, by the end of 2019, Fridays for Future started building its ‘Most Affected People and Areas’ (MAPA) chapter. The whole idea was to create a safe space for those in the Global South to discuss how climate change relates to them and how they could come to the forefront of the movement – it was more like a brainstorming session. So, that’s where we started.
Photo credit: UNICEF
And when Fridays for Future (MAPA) started, as Bangladesh is a vulnerable country, I got the opportunity to engage more. Coincidentally, COVID also hit at the same time. Throughout this entire consistent period, I tried to join every call possible, every meeting possible, reading every document they shared on how they relate with different campaigns, banks, finance, and economy. I tried to read and learn everything through that chat through Fridays for Future. Most of the time in Bangladesh, my responsibility was to communicate the information that was coming from there more to my community. However, Bangladesh was more focused on strikes, volunteerism, and action-based movements. That’s why Bangladesh gave me information on strike goals, agendas, and how to organize strikes. But at the same time, my knowledge was growing. Then in 2021, UNICEF International, reached out to MAPA saying they had a children’s climate risk index and wanted to publish a report with a forward. They needed some activists to write the forward and offer support, and they helped us write it. The four of us writing were Greta Thunberg, myself, Eric Njuguna, and Adriana Calderón. So UNICEF widely publicized it, and all the big news media covered it. After that, while still being a related member, I was volunteering in almost every group possible and every working thing possible. That’s why Fridays for Future, especially the MAPA chapter, became known – Farzana from Bangladesh was doing the work. When that thing started getting highlighted, UNICEF Bangladesh got to know that I existed.
Source: UNICEF
In 2021, we took a delegation from Fridays for Future – MAPA. Every delegation to COP was a huge task in 2020, so two years later, there was a huge push for youth engagement, and for the first time ever, Fridays for Future participated as a delegation. It was huge, and I was part of that team. We discussed how to reach out to the news media. That’s how I got more involved in international processes like UN processes.
At the same time, kind of funny, when we were supposed to go to Sweden for a four to five-day training program with UNICEF Sweden to learn more about what was going on, we ended up in London for a campaign against Standard Chartered Bank. It was a cleanup campaign because Standard Chartered Bank is a UK-based bank, but they are funding fossil fuels in 12 countries in Asia, and funnily enough, they were one of the best banks in Bangladesh. So they were earning our money, getting our money, and funding fossil fuels. Based on that idea, we did a campaign. But then my visa to Sweden was rejected because, fun fact: they told me that as a young woman who is unemployed, unmarried, and has no children, they think I will not return to Bangladesh if I got my visa. Feeling helpless, I posted it on Twitter, and luckily famous personalities like Greta, Vanessa, and others noticed it and started retweeting it. UNICEF saw it and claimed that I was working with them and that they were sending me. As UNICEF was also working with Sweden, they confirmed that I was going there for them. So, although I initially had to go to Sweden, UNICEF now knew me.
I came back, and UNICEF reached out to me again. They said they wanted to work with me and offered a new youth advocate position. It’s a voluntary position, but they would support me in different areas. I had always been passionate about UNICEF since my childhood from watching the Meena Cartoon, so I was very happy and said yes. That’s how I got involved with UNICEF and then with many other UN processes.
Fridays for Future is a movement with a goal to amplify the voices of frontline communities, their ideas, and ensure intersectional justice through climate justice. The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is an initiative that pushes for a treaty to phase out fossil fuels. These are just a few examples, and I work with many other organizations like 350.org that are all involved in climate action.
Here’s how I see collaboration: Global climate action is a complex idea. Policymakers create policies, but national circumstances are also very important. MAPA, a grassroots movement, focuses on getting that grassroots work done.
When we talk about climate action, it’s crucial to understand that it’s a process. Initiatives like the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, MAPA, or any others I work with all emphasize the importance of action. For example, in Bangladesh, ‘goat rearing’ was a form of climate adaptation effort for many many days, but without addressing the root cause of climate change, adaptation alone won’t be enough.
The same principle applies across the board. MAPA, the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, or any other organization – the main thing is to make sure we understand the bigger picture. We need to know that if fossil fuels aren’t phased out, no matter how much adaptation or resilience we build, or how much we discuss loss and damage, nothing will truly work.
Similarly, if we don’t explore the connections between climate justice and issues like child rights and women’s rights, and if we don’t elevate the voices of the Global South, no matter how many initiatives we have, they won’t serve the communities most affected by climate change. Those who contribute the least to the problem are often the ones who suffer the most.
Initiatives like the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty address this with its three pillars: phasing out fossil fuels, ensuring a just transition for workers in the industry, and involving all stakeholders in the decision-making process.
You have participated in three COPs so far, from COP26 to COP28. What have you learned from these three events, and what do you think the next COP29 needs to deliver, from your experienced point of view?
My COP journeys have evolved significantly. At the first COP I attended, the focus was on advocating for more youth inclusion and discussions around climate change’s impact on frontline communities and the most affected people and areas. COP26 was more about following trends, media narratives, and learning how to communicate with a broad audience. Attending side events became a priority to gain a deeper understanding of the COP process itself.
COP27 and COP28, however, were more policy-focused, which aligns with COP’s core purpose. However, a key takeaway across all these COPs is the lack of public awareness about them. It’s become clear that we, the public, have more influence than we might realize. Unfortunately, powerful lobbies and the prevalence of capitalist mindsets make it difficult to have productive discussions. Trust in the process is waning because we haven’t seen enough bold decisions emerge.
Overall, I’ve learned the immense importance of COP policies. They’re not just events, but platforms for crucial decisions that ultimately impact local communities. It’s a two-way process, but COP doesn’t always reflect this. Every word, sentence, and contribution holds significant weight. The political nature of the climate space is undeniable.
Photo Credit: Marie Jacquemin
COP29 must deliver more concrete language on fossil fuel phase-out, and just as importantly, the financing required for that phase-out. Without these discussions, achieving the 1.5-degree target is simply impossible. My views, and those of the organizations I work with, are clear: we can’t address climate change without tackling both justice and financing issues. This year, COP29 will be heavily focused on finance, which is a positive step. However, it needs to deliver more concrete results.
The most critical issue for this year’s COP29 is undoubtedly the $100 billion pledge for climate finance. Developed nations committed to providing this amount annually to the most vulnerable countries starting in 2020. However, they haven’t met that goal. This year will bring a report detailing the amount delivered, by whom, and when. With this information, we can move forward and discuss a New Collective Quantified Goal (NCG) for future climate finance.
As a youth advocate for UNICEF Bangladesh, what campaigns or initiatives are you particularly excited about, and how do you see youth driving change in climate action?
As a UNICEF Bangladesh Youth Advocate, my role is twofold. One aspect involves policy pushing, lobbying, and advocating for climate justice and children’s rights. The other involves supporting initiatives and campaigns. UNICEF focuses on child rights and youth inclusion, but overall, as a youth advocate, I work in my field on campaigns and initiatives that I’m passionate about.
The campaign initiative I’m most excited about is capacity building. It’s not a one-day event; it’s an ongoing process to raise awareness and equip people with the knowledge to take action on climate change. I’m incredibly proud of the people working on the ground level who make my policy advocacy work possible. I appreciate and support every initiative people take at the local level. I see change coming through climate action, which has evolved beyond just strikes. People are taking innovative initiatives like vertical windmills – these are the kind of ideas I support.
Capacity building, in this sense, is a continuous process of teaching people how to take action. This action can be individual, local, national, or even involve policy, negotiation, innovation, or environmental research. Every change, big or small, contributes to progress. As a youth advocate, I deeply appreciate seeing people take action. We need to spread awareness about green jobs and how young people are using AI for climate action. These are all campaigns and initiatives I support, with a special interest in policy.
I want more people to understand policies and how to follow them. I don’t expect everyone to be an expert, but I want people to know that climate action isn’t just about planting trees.
Could you please share the story behind KaathPencil and its impact on underprivileged children, particularly in terms of climate education?
Initially, the KaathPencil campaign focused on basic climate education. When COVID hit and offline work became difficult, we launched the ‘Poribesher Proti Projonmo’ (PPP) (meaning ‘Generation for Environment’) campaign. The idea was to share knowledge through simple quizzes to reach our target audience. These quizzes weren’t just about finding the right answer; we used them as a springboard to explain the importance and connections behind climate issues. Then, we launched the ‘Act Now’ campaign, which covered climate change, child rights, and child abuse. We reached out to schools to educate students on these basic topics. We didn’t want to replace teachers, but rather to help students expand their knowledge and develop critical thinking skills. Our goal was to empower them to educate themselves.
The ‘Act Now’ campaign reached a significant number of students last year (around 48 schools in 2023). We’re planning another, more comprehensive campaign around climate change for this year (2024).
Sailing on the “Rainbow Warrior” of Greenpeace must have been incredible. What were the most impactful moments for you during that experience?
I could talk all day about how amazing the journey was! Our goal was to get more youth involved and create a more youth-friendly space within the activist movement. It was performative activism, which is different from my policy work, but that’s natural for activism, and I loved it. The Rainbow Warrior is a symbol of hope, and we wanted to show that young people can contribute in different ways, not just through flying or traditional means. Sailing was significant because it connected to the reality of our sinking island nations.
Photo credit: Suzanne Plunkett / Greenpeace
Everyone took the experience incredibly well. There was a huge strike happening in Glasgow at the same time, and we had volunteers and activists from various places joining us, making our movement feel bigger and stronger. That was a powerful message in itself. It’s hard to pick just one impactful moment, but if I had to, it would be a situation that wasn’t directly related to climate change.
The ship’s captain, a woman, faced resistance from the police who tried to stop the ship from passing under a bridge, claiming it was illegal. We were all on board at night, and the entire ship was wired with microphones, so everyone could hear the exchange. The captain was determined to take the ship under the bridge, even though the police warned it could damage the bridge.
The captain’s courage was inspiring. The Greenpeace crew assured her they would handle any potential damage, but she emphasized her responsibility to give hope to people who were watching. She took a calculated risk, and after successfully passing under the bridge (which was full of journalists covering the event), she explained her actions. She knew her job was to give hope, and she wouldn’t shy away from taking risks to do so. The fact that a woman captain took such a strong stance was incredibly impactful.
This experience connects to the work I do. I need to give people hope and maintain my own. Even when people don’t see the results of my work all the time, I know what I’m doing and why it’s important. That’s why I take calculated steps and risks, just like the captain. There are many challenges ahead, but sailing on the Rainbow Warrior showed the power of collective action, inspired me, and solidified my purpose.
Given the challenges we face, how do you maintain a sense of climate optimism? What advice do you have for others looking to stay hopeful and engaged in the fight against climate change?
For me, hope comes from the community I work with. The climate community is small, but we take care of each other. It’s not just about climate action; it’s about a broader movement for social justice, elections, women’s rights, and children’s rights. This sense of community is crucial because the movement itself can feel capitalist and broken. We face internal and external problems, so having good people to work with is essential.
The second source of my optimism is Bangladesh’s local communities. Bangladesh is a champion of climate adaptation because they have to be. People in the countryside and coastal areas have very little, and they are finding solutions. They inspire me because I have the privilege of things like food, water, and a house. This responsibility motivates me to work for them, as they can’t be activists or policymakers.
If you read stories or visit these communities, you see they don’t lose hope when they have to migrate. They are sad and feel the unfairness, but they remain hopeful. This is fuel for the entire youth movement, not just me. It’s also important to be aware of the many people working on solutions; that knowledge is supportive.
What’s your favorite local food? Does climate change have any impact on it?
I don’t have a specific favorite, but I enjoy Fuchka and Pitha. Climate change likely has a bigger impact on our cultural connection to seasonal foods. Pitha is traditionally eaten during winter, but with climate shifts, we’re losing this seasonal aspect. It’s not a direct impact on the food itself, but on the cultural practices surrounding it.
FuchkaNokshi Pitha
Tell me about a practice(s) in your culture that’s actually very sustainable and good for the planet.
There are SO MANY things! In Bangladeshi culture, we don’t believe in throwing things away. We use clothes until they’re unusable. This anti-consumerist approach focuses on getting the most out of what we already have. Even when considering eco-friendly options, reusing and repairing what we have is important because making anything requires resources.
Another sustainable practice is our local cuisine. We eat local and seasonal foods throughout the year, which minimizes waste and transportation needs. This approach reflects a long history of living in harmony with nature.
Photo credit: Eva Bronzini
What would your advice be to someone in the climate movement who feels hopeless and burned out?
I understand burnout – I experience it too. My advice is to know your capacity and who you’re working with. Don’t try to do everything, especially as a Bangladeshi youth. There’s pressure to be involved at every level, but every action counts.
Climate activism can take many forms. You don’t have to be a public figure. Identify your skills and how you can contribute. Whether you’re a doctor offering sustainable food suggestions or an engineer working on renewable energy, your individual actions matter. Start learning, value the people around you, and focus on your specific contribution.
I want to work on policy and potentially be part of the UN system. I see myself representing Bangladesh and working with UN agencies or even government agencies on policies related to climate change and energy security. I’m also pursuing a Master’s degree in energy security and policy to further prepare myself for this path.
Do you have an idol?
Yes, I have several! One is BTS. Their UN speech about inclusion and self-love resonated with me, especially for those feeling hopeless. They support the climate movement and youth issues, and their songs address mental health and social issues. Their lyrics are intelligent and deep, which I appreciate. Their music also helps me when I’m feeling burned out.
BTS (Source: Wikimedia)
Another idol is Amina J. Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General. She’s my inspiration – I see myself in a similar position someday. Seeing her navigate complex situations and lead the UN is impressive. She’s a role model for ambitious women.
For fun, I listen to a lot of music. I don’t have any specific hobbies, but I enjoy trying new things. I love the experience of exploring and doing different activities. Traveling falls into this category – I don’t get to do it often, but I love it when I can.
If I had to define a passion, I’d say it’s observing people. I do this with great interest. I try to understand them and see things from their perspective. I also enjoy talking to friends and meeting new people.
What’s your mantra for life?
It might sound a bit cliché, but it’s something I came up with when I started climate activism: “I don’t want to die because that’s the only thing I can do. I want to die because that’s the last thing I can do.” The idea is not to die in vain, but to make my life’s journey meaningful. Additionally, I follow the saying, “If you are the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room.” I don’t want to be the best in any space; that limits my opportunities to learn. I stay connected to climate activism but also explore other areas to broaden my knowledge.
That’s a fantastic question! The most important thing to remember is that anyone and everyone can join the climate movement and still be sustainable in their own spaces. This includes engineers, doctors, researchers – anyone. However, the climate movement we’re leading is specifically for those who want to focus their efforts on climate change. Fridays for Future is one example, and 350.org has a huge network within their organization. Women also have their own climate movement. Finding out what someone’s interests are is the key to finding the best way to get involved. Everyone has their own way of joining.
If someone’s interested in climate policy, they can join the Youth Constituency for the UNFCCC (YOUNGO). If they’re interested in following environmental policy, they can join the UN Major Group for Children and Youth. If they want to join Fridays for Future, they can find them on social media – every movement has a social media presence these days. If someone wants to learn about capacity building, they can join their local organization through social media. It’s very easy to find them. Joining a bigger movement is also an option. Fridays for Future has its own website, with details for every country. You can simply search for them.
So, joining the movement is very easy. But even if you’re not technically a member, you can still be part of the climate movement by taking action in your own space. This includes everyone – students, doctors, engineers, policymakers, lawyers, journalists – everyone!
This is part of a series where Green & Beyond Mag explores the stories and takes a peek at the lifestyles of incredible people like green entrepreneurs, innovators, climate advocates, activists, community leaders, and content creators, all around the world, who love the planet and are working tirelessly to make the world a better place.
Forget the typical tourist itinerary – imagine a journey where every step, pedal stroke, and salty sea breeze is a deliberate act of environmental love. That’s the reality for Thomas Polo and Megan Claire Routbort, the co-founders of The Green Journey. This climate storytelling nonprofit isn’t about ticking off landmarks or racking up frequent flyer miles. Instead, they’re on a multi-year odyssey across the globe, using their platform to amplify the voices of everyday heroes tackling the climate crisis head-on.
Their mode of transport? Think bikes, trains, even a sailboat across the Atlantic. It’s a testament to their commitment to “reduce, respect, restore,” the guiding principles that fuel The Green Journey. Through in-depth, immersive storytelling, they paint a vibrant picture of a world buzzing with innovation and resilience. Forget the doomscrolling narratives; Polo and Routbort are here to inject a healthy dose of “earned hope” – the kind that blossoms from witnessing real action on the ground. Buckle up, because this interview dives deep into the remarkable world of The Green Journey, where every story shared is a call to action for a more sustainable future.
Could you please tell us about the story behind The Green Journey and what the platform aims to achieve?
Megan: The Green Journey is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on using exploration as a tool to tackle climate change. We have a theory that getting people excited about low-carbon, slow travel can be an entry into talking about sustainability, and then working on it in their own communities to create change.
Polo: The idea came from our own experience working in sustainability. We started our climate careers in office jobs (we actually met on Zoom!) but we found that there was more to the story of how to create a livable future than just corporate action and climate tech innovation. The puzzle is big and cuts across disciplines; solutions literally span the entire globe. So in May 2023, we embarked on a climate-positive world tour to amplify and share the messages of climate and nature heroes from all continents.
Source: The Green Journey
How do you define a “climate-positive world tour”?
Megan: Our main goal with climate-positive travel is to leave each place we go better than we found it. This can take many different forms; sometimes, it looks like sharing the story of an NGO that’s rewilding an old sand quarry or peat mine. Other times, it looks like participating in a climate protest, like the Global March to End Fossil Fuels or Fridays for Future. Sometimes, it just means doing a spontaneous beach cleanup, or talking to someone we’re hitchhiking with about climate action in their area.
Polo: The other critical piece is reducing our own carbon footprint as we travel; we use low-carbon forms of transport, eat low on the food chain, and live a very minimalist lifestyle — I can fit my entire life in a 50-liter backpack!
Source: The Green Journey
You’ve traveled across continents by bike, sailboat, and public transportation. Can you share some of the logistical challenges and unexpected joys of slow, low-carbon travel?
Polo: Well, it’s definitely not the fastest way to travel. For example, we thought it would take us two months to sail from Europe to North America, and it ended up taking us almost five! So we had to be very flexible and patient.
Megan: But that type of unexpected delay is also what makes slow travel kind of beautiful. Along the way, we connected with so many places and people, from the Balearic Islands to the Bahamas, and encountered stories to share with our audience that we never would have reached if we were traveling by plane or by car.
Source: The Green Journey
Polo: I was feeling pretty down about the climate crisis before we set off on the road, but with each day I spend on expeditions at The Green Journey, my hope is renewed. There are so many incredible people making change in their corners of the world; if we can do our part by bringing these stories to a global audience, we can advocate for and inspire systemic change.
From community-owned wind power to nature regeneration projects, your journey has encountered diverse solutions. What surprised you most about the variety of climate action happening globally?
Megan: It’s not just young people who are acting on climate. Yes, there’s a lot of media attention focused on activists like Greta Thunberg, but for every member of Gen Z that we’ve met working on climate, there’s also a hero who’s a millennial, a Gen X, or a Boomer. We even met with eighty-year-olds in Kutë, Albania, who’d used a civil disobedience campaign to protest the damming of the Vjosa River. Their activism showed us it’s never too late to get involved in climate action.
Polo: One thing that surprised me is the variety of approaches. We’re evolving from a situation where climate is the realm of scientists and weathermen. We see people tackling the challenge across disciplines, showing that the climate movement is now truly a cultural movement rather than just a scientific one.
In what ways do you leverage your platform to advocate for a better climate future and inspire others to take action?
Polo: Our goal with The Green Journey is to share stories of real action and radical hope. We spent most of our time, energy, and content on finding and profiling climate solutions, preferably the ones that aren’t necessarily getting the attention they deserve. All around the world, there are so many people who are making waves to build more sustainable communities, but it might not even be their day job. We focus on everyday climate heroes in order to show our audience that you don’t have to be a celebrity or an influencer to make a difference.
Source: The Green Journey
How do you balance raising awareness about the climate crisis with promoting hope and optimism through your storytelling?
Megan: I think the idea that people aren’t aware of the climate crisis is a bit of a distraction. National surveys from Yale Climate Communications tell us that 72% of Americans believe global warming is happening; in countries like Hungary, Portugal, and Costa Rica, that number is higher than 90%. What we respond to is the shift from climate denial to climate doomism, a growing school of thought that basically tells us we’re screwed and it’s too late to act. Of course, that’s not true. We focus on fighting back against that narrative, showing that there’s still time to change, and that actually, we have everything to gain as a society from making those changes.
The Green Journey was recognized as Future Climate Leaders at Aspen Ideas: Climate Summit. Can you tell us more about your experience at Aspen Ideas Climate as Future Climate Leaders and the key takeaways from the event?
Polo: After almost ten months on the road, it was incredible to arrive in Miami Beach for the Aspen Ideas: Climate summit, where I joined 100+ Future Leaders from all over the world and all across disciplines to discuss the impact each one of us is making on the climate movement, and how to develop our work and take it to the next level. My biggest takeaway definitely came from witnessing the diversity of the cohort itself; whether you’re an artist or a scientist, French or Bahamian or American, there’s a place for you to make an impact.
What practical tips can you offer Green & Beyond Mag readers who want to travel more sustainably and reduce their environmental footprint?
Megan: It doesn’t have to be a far-flung adventure, but plan at least one trip a year that doesn’t involve flying. Ride your bicycle, lace up your hiking shoes, or hop onboard your national rail network. Get out of your comfort zone and watch the world go by at a slower pace, and I promise your horizons will expand in ways you didn’t think were possible.
Polo: Whenever I travel to a new city, I love using Too Good To Go, an app that lets you buy Surprise Bags of surplus food that would have otherwise gone to waste. It’s a great way to sample local cuisine in a way that’s good for the planet and your wallet.
What role do you see storytelling playing in inspiring individuals to adopt sustainable lifestyles and advocate for environmental change?
Polo: I think one of the central problems in the climate story today is the misplaced idea that a sustainable lifestyle leaves you worse off, or that you ‘lose’ something by going green. When in actuality, a sustainable lifestyle means cleaner air, more connection to nature, cheaper electricity, and so much more. Storytelling has a critical role to play in cutting through the noise and getting to the heart of that truth. By centering people and places who have made positive change, and showing that it is possible, stories have the power to totally upend the culture. That’s what I love about them.
Where will your journey take you next? Where can our audience follow along with your journey and learn more about your work?
Megan: Right now, we’re prepping for our next big expedition, a solar-powered bike ride across the United States. Starting in July, we’ll be riding coast-to-coast from California to New York City, profiling individuals and organizations that are working to make renewable power faster, better, cheaper, and cleaner than fossil fuels, for everyone across the country! We’re looking for partners, so if you’re interested in the intersection of adventure + climate, please get in touch!
We’d love it if your audience supported us by following the adventure: we’re active on Instagram and other social media platforms. We also publish a blog on Substack.
Can I ask you something? You can take a couple of minutes to think before answering. How can culture and entertainment play a part in driving climate action? Too tough? It’s actually not. Let me tell you why. But first, let me tell you that, there is a relationship between these three and that is exactly why there is a pavilion focusing just on Entertainment + Culture at COP28 this year.
The relationship between culture, entertainment, and climate is actually very simple. If you have ever listened to folk or country music from any part of our planet, you will find out that there are many songs from the point of view of the farmers; they express their emotions through these songs. You also might get some extra agricultural lessons from those songs too! There are different songs for the times of planting the seeds, different songs for the times of taking care of the crops, and different songs for the times of harvest. It’s not tough to understand that, the time for different agricultural tasks; from sowing to reaping; is different and depends on the seasons. So climate plays the most important part in agriculture, and for different tasks and times for those agricultural activities there are different songs, now these songs are part of a culture, and when you listen to them, they become a form of entertainment. I’m sure you’re starting to see the picture more clearly at this point.
Old farmers Chen Shifan, Dai Bisheng, Chen Shida and Jiang Xinglong, sing Wa Wu Mountain Song in the field in Yaozu, the Yao ethnic town in Longhui county, Central China’s Hunan province on Aug 25, 2012. [Photo/Xinhua]
The Intricate Link Between Entertainment + Culture and Climate
It’s impossible to think about culture and entertainment without the role of climate. Because the environment that we all live in, which we experience differently in different parts of our planet, shapes our cultures differently, so the forms of entertainment are also heavily influenced by climate. Just like there are poems and songs and celebrations to pray for and welcome summer in the countries that go through severely cold winters, there are different forms of artistic expressions and celebrations that pray for and welcome rain or winter in the countries that experience intensely hot summers too. For example, Juhannus, the midsummer festival of Finland which is marked by bonfires, traditional songs, and dances to welcome and celebrate summer holds an ancient and important cultural value. There are similar festivals in countries that experience similar weather patterns too – Midsommar festival in Sweden, Jaanipäev or Midsummer day in Estonia, Līgo svētki or Midsummer festival in Latvia. Similarly, countries that experience warm and hot weather throughout the longer part of the year welcome and celebrate monsoons and winters. For example, Barsha Utshab in Bangladesh, Songkran or Thai water festival in Thailand.
Now you might ask, why are we talking about all of these? It’s because we, human beings, are at a crucial time now regarding the health of our planet. Due to the usage of fossil fuel, usage of toxic chemicals, deforestation, overproduction, overconsumption, etc., we are at the point of a time where we need to act vigorously to prevent our global climate from changing and going to an irreversible point of no return.
This is not only a threat to our lands and lives, but also to our cultures too. You might argue that if some cultures get lost in time due to climate change, it’s not a big deal, new cultures will take birth and fill up those gaps. But it’s not that simple, because the cultures that we might lose due to climate change will be lost along with the lives of the people who represent those cultures and the lands that they live in, that they call home.
Cultivating the Power Art Holds in Shaping a Better World
But instead of getting lost in the feeling of sadness and helplessness, we all can do something about it. And you know what? Entertainment + Culture can be our tools to take those actions. Music, poems, stories, acting, painting, dancing, movies – everything can help us to take action for our planet and secure a future that is safe, joyful, sustainable, and just for all. These forms of arts and entertainment can not only help us to get out of the endless black hole of feeling helpless but also they can help us to be optimistic and dream about a beautiful future. Not just that, they can actually make us feel positively powerful to take action for us and for our planet.
Now if you are still feeling unsure how this can be true. Let me tell you that, it’s not only true, it’s effective too. Entertainment + Culture can play crucial roles in igniting climate actions, bringing meaningful changes, and shaping policies. Let’s delve a little deeper into this discussion, shall we?
Entertainment + Culture Bringing Effective Changes Globally
Climate action comes in different forms and it’s important to understand that. From choosing to buy fewer products, and buying eco-friendly products to community-based actions to advocating for policy changes; all are climate actions. Leaders from different sectors of culture and entertainment have the ability to influence many people by using their voices, arts, and platforms to take such actions, and they are doing so. Prominent celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Watson,Billie Eilish have successfully influenced so many people from all around the globe to adopt a sustainable lifestyle. This clearly shows that the sector of culture and entertainment has the ability to contribute to climate actions.
The influence of culture and entertainment is not just limited to bringing lifestyle changes. From ancient times, culture and its representation as a form of entertainment have inspired community-based climate actions too. Indigenous storytelling and performance arts from all around the globe have passed down the knowledge of their ways of living in harmony with nature to the next generations. This knowledge is helping these communities not only to live sustainably but to take care of our planet. Indigenous communities account for only around 5% of the global population but they effectively manage 20 – 25% of Earth’s surface lands and take care of 80% of our planet’s biodiversity.
It is also important to know that the role of culture and entertainment in driving climate action can reach policy-making levels too. The best example of this could be the small country named Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas, known for its strong commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. The country’s cultural values, deeply rooted in reverence for nature, have played a significant role in shaping its policies and actions towards achieving carbon neutrality. Not to mention, Bhutan was the first country to be recognized as carbon-negative. The country is also famous for being the pioneer in the Wellbeing Economy movement and measures its progress not in terms of GDP but in terms of GNH or Gross National Happiness. Also, I think we all can agree on the role of the famous documentary of Al Gore, Former Vice President of the United States, “An Inconvenient Truth” in igniting conversation, contributing culturally, and thus having an effect at the policymaking level too.
So, What’s Happening at the E + C Pavilion at COP28
I’m sure by now you have realized the immense power that culture and entertainment hold in driving climate action. That is exactly why, for the very first time there is a dedicated Entertainment + Culture Pavilion at COP28 this year. This pavilion is acting as a hub where people and organizations from all around our planet are engaging to amplify climate action from individual levels to the policy-making stage through the power of culture and entertainment.
The wide range of programmings of the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion at COP28 clearly echoes the importance of entertainment and culture in climate action. Cultural leaders from all across our planet are joining in to make the voice of the pavilion stronger. From sectoral roundtables, discussion panels, interactive installations to fashion shows and musical performances to many more, the pavilion is platforming events to ignite climate action through entertainment and culture. The Enter + C Pavilion at COP28 is featuring remarkable cultural and climate leaders like Dia Mirza, Farhana Yamin, Jeffery D.Sachs, Hindou Omarou Ibrahim, Nile Rodgers, Mustafa Santiago Ali, Vanessa Nakate, Xiye Bastida, Omnia El Omrani, Laurel Kivuyo, Leo Cerda, Max Han, Habiba Abdulrahman Hemed, Isavela Lopez, Monica Jahan Bose. If the powerful voices of all of these talents believe that entertainment + culture can play a significant role in driving climate action and bringing effective changes, then it’s surely the safest bet to believe in them too!
Your Voice Matters, Your Actions Matter
Culture is an inseparable part of all of our lives. We are always consuming or taking part in entertainment in one way or another in this digital age. So it is actually possible for all of us to play our own roles in climate action through entertainment + culture. You can surely write, draw, paint, sing, act, play, perform in your own ways, and use your power to inspire others to take climate actions from individual stages to bring changes in the policies. Even if you’re someone who is not involved in any of these, you can still play an active role by sharing the messages of those who are doing those things to amplify the cause and inspire others to take climate action. It surely doesn’t take much to share songs or poems or any other form of art with your friends and have a chat with them after that to start the conversation about taking the necessary steps. Why? Because the beginning of that conversation will definitely result in some kind of climate action and it’s important. Isn’t it important to take care of our home, our only home, planet Earth?
In the labyrinth of global efforts combating the climate crisis, a distinctive initiative is taking center stage at the blue zone of COP28 – the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion (E+C Pavilion). This pioneering endeavor stands as the first dedicated space within the COP Blue Zone, delving into the dynamic intersection of Entertainment, Culture, and Climate.
The Pavilion aims to serve not only as a physical space within the COP Blue Zone but as a metaphorical bridge connecting the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the creative industries. Their mission is to provide a platform for collaboration, education, and inspiration, and to establish a vital connection between the creative industries and the global climate discourse. This connection goes beyond symbolism, manifesting in interdisciplinary activations and programming events that inspire concrete climate action.
“As members of the creative sector, we hold immense power to shape mainstream perspectives, raise awareness on important issues facing our planet, build shared understanding and consciousness, and encourage behavioral change.”
The Partnership and Impact Director of E+C Pavilion, Samuel Rubin shared with Green & Beyond Mag
At the heart of the Pavilion’s significance is its unique ability to amplify climate dialogues globally. The Pavilion, according to the organizers, aims to be a space where “entertainment, culture, and intricate global climate dialogues intersect.” Its goal is clear: to use the influential realms of entertainment and culture to articulate, disseminate, and amplify pivotal climate discussions emerging from COP28 to a global audience.
Significance of the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion at COP28
Amidst the urgency of climate action, the E+C Pavilion emerges as a dynamic hub pulsating with creativity, activism, ambition, and hope. In an era where social media platforms dominate communication, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion recognizes the power of narrative impact and climate storytelling. “Uplifting the power of narratives and stories in promoting planetary justice and fostering an understanding of interconnectedness, kinship, and care for people, flora, fauna, and the planet” is a focal point.
Photo by Spemone
This approach aligns with the Pavilion’s mission to inspire collective action through the emotive strength of storytelling. Positioned within the Blue Zone, this pavilion seeks to amplify the emotional resonance and transformative power of Entertainment and Culture, fostering heightened awareness, inspiring collective action, and catalyzing systemic change.
“Climate change not only threatens natural resources, but also the cultural heritage of communities intricately tied to ancestral lands and waters. Culture therefore provides the imperative to educate and empower generations of community members to band together to generate locally-suited solutions to preserve natural and cultural heritage.”
– Samuel further shared with Green & Beyond Mag
Hence, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion at COP28 marks a groundbreaking venture as its genesis lies in recognizing the transformative potential of culture and entertainment in steering climate conversations. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) underscores the power of narrative shifts and cultural efforts, estimating that the committed engagement of 10-30% of social influencers and thought leaders is pivotal for shaping new social norms.
“The creative sector urgently needs more hubs like the E+C Pavilion. These spaces are crucial for building essential infrastructure, advancing decarbonization initiatives, crafting policies, creating economic incentives, securing funding, and ensuring diversity and representation across the entertainment industry.”
– The Communication & Content Director of E+C Pavilion, Kirsten Wessel shared with Green & Beyond Mag
The significance of such a platform extends beyond the COP event. The organizers envision a world where the creative industries and cultural expressions play a pivotal role in shaping the global climate agenda. The pilot edition of the Pavilion at COP28 is designed to be a stepping stone for a permanent presence at COP and potentially other high-level conferences within the UN ecosystem. This ambition is rooted in the understanding that the creative sector, employing over 50 million people globally, is a powerful force that can drive meaningful change.
Cultural Catalyst for Policy and Action
Emerging from this understanding, the Pavilion aims to be a nexus where entertainment and culture converge to exert influence. In crafting this unique space, the organizers draw inspiration from UNESCO‘s view of culture as the “ultimate renewable resource” to combat climate change. The Pavilion is more than a platform; it’s a testament to the urgent need to leverage the interdisciplinary skills and global reach of the creative industries for climate advocacy.
“Tackling the climate crisis will take decisive action at all levels of society, so why not harness the interdisciplinary skills and global reach of the creative industries to actively address and combat climate change?We have no alternative but to make an earnest effort, crucially because it involves adapting to the evolving climate and mastering the art of navigating our current reality. Whether conveyed through music, film, art, or otherwise, it’s essential to feel acknowledged and share narratives of resilience and joy within our global communities.”
The Entertainment + Culture Pavilion positions itself as a bridge between the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the creative industries. The mission resonates with a commitment to inspire concrete climate action, fostering collaboration and leveraging culture’s power to engage a global audience. The organizers envision a world where the creative industries and cultural expressions serve as dynamic drivers of climate action and environmental stewardship.
The E+C Pavilion stands as a testament to the potent fusion of creativity and climate action. Through its objectives, the Pavilion aims to showcase the profound impact that culture, arts, music, and storytelling can have in interpreting the reality of the climate crisis. According to the organizers, “The emotive strength of these mediums taps into universal human experiences, transcending borders and languages.”
Photo by Green & Beyond Desk
E+C Pavilion’s offerings throughout COP28 – Programming & Events
The Pavilion’s programming themes craft a vivid portrayal of its objectives. From exploring audiovisual sovereignty to examining the influence of persuasive industries in raising climate awareness, each theme is a thread in the larger narrative of leveraging culture for climate action. Notably, the Pavilion’s emphasis on health, mindfulness, and storytelling underscores a holistic approach to climate engagement.
As the organizers succinctly put it, “The Pavilion and its programming are designed to unite these subsectors and bolster the presence of the entire industry in the climate agenda.”
The Pavilion’s commitment to fostering collaboration is evident in its event formats. Whether through sectoral roundtables, discussion panels, or interactive installations, the Pavilion aims to provide a diverse set of avenues for engaging with climate issues. This inclusivity extends to community mixers, where people from diverse backgrounds converge to network and build bridges within the creative sector.
Panel discussions to be hosted by organizations like NAACP, Harvard, and MENA Youth Network will delve into crucial topics such as storytelling in the Black community for environmental justice, communicating climate change and health solutions through video media, and exploring climate action through the cultural lens of the Middle East and North Africa.
Photo by Product School
Additionally, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion will feature a fashion show spotlighting eco-conscious clothing and accessories. This exhibition goes beyond the traditional runway, championing innovative design and creativity while emphasizing sustainability in the fashion industry. It serves as a testament to the Pavilion’s commitment to intertwining culture and climate across various sectors.
Photo by Rudy Issa
The lineup of performances is equally impressive. From Nile Rodgers, renowned for his contributions to the music industry, to spoken word performances by environmental justice advocate Isavela Lopez, the Pavilion offers a diverse range of artistic expressions. These performances aim not only to entertain but also to inspire a sense of responsibility and climate awareness.
Nile Rodgers, Musician – Photo via Wikimedia
The Pavilion’s vision goes beyond COP28. It aspires to be a stepping stone for a permanent presence at COP and other high-level conferences within the UN ecosystem. By encouraging dialogue, igniting innovation, and mobilizing people globally, the Pavilion seeks to contribute to a more sustainable and habitable planet.
As we delve into the details of the Pavilion’s offerings throughout COP28, it becomes apparent that it’s a hub of climate optimism, as the Pavilion’s dynamic programming aims to instill a sense of hope and empowerment. By incorporating diverse voices, the Pavilion seeks to catalyze tangible actions and solutions across borders and sectors.
Recognizing the Importance of Diversity & Inclusivity
The Pavilion’s extensive programming, comprising over 190 proposals from around the globe, reflects its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Events will be conducted in English, Arabic, Spanish, and Portuguese, making the Pavilion a truly global platform. Private roundtables, interactive exhibitions, and community mixers highlight the diverse array of activities that participants can engage with.
Photo by Sigmund
Another crucial aspect of the Pavilion is its emphasis on talent diversity. From Indian actress Dia Mirza to climate lawyer and activist Farhana Yamin, the Pavilion brings together a diverse array of voices. This diversity is not just symbolic; it mirrors the Pavilion’s broader mission of uniting artists, innovators, and thought leaders from varied backgrounds to foster collaboration and synergy.
“A prime example being featured in the pavilion is Monica Jahan Bose, a member of our Delegation who founded “Storytelling with Saris”. Through this initiative, she uplifts traditional practices in rural Bangladesh, utilizing her own traditional clothing as a tool for movement building, climate action, and empowerment. During COP, Monica will lead a performance and host a workshop at the E+C Pavilion.”
– Organizers at the E+C Pavilion
Photo by Storytelling with Saris
“The Pavilion also features filmmaker collectives like Mullu, Midia Ninja, and Sauntr representing Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, and the US, establishing community- or Indigenous-led media platforms to create fresh content that focuses on community cinema and collective creation while supporting audiovisual sovereignty over their narratives. With over 100 community events and 150 partners, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion represents a diverse array of approaches to intertwining environmental concerns with arts and culture.”
– the organizers further said.
Highlighting Individuals and Talents of the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion
The Pavilion boasts an impressive lineup of individuals who have made significant contributions to the intersection of climate action and culture. Dia Mirza, an Indian actress and Goodwill Ambassador for UNEP, brings her influence to amplify environmental causes. Climate lawyer, author, and activist Farhana Yamin, along with world-renowned economist Jeffrey D. Sachs, adds depth to the Pavilion’s discussions.
Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, President of the Indigenous Women & People’s Association of Chad, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Vice President of the National Wildlife Federation, represent voices from regions deeply affected by climate change. Their perspectives offer valuable insights into the intersection of culture, indigenous rights, and environmental stewardship.
The Entertainment + Culture Pavilion also features youth leaders and renowned climate activists like Vanessa Nakate, founder of the Rise Up Movement, and Max Han, co-founder of Youths United for Earth. Their presence underscores the importance of empowering the younger generation in the climate discourse.
Xiye Bastida, co-founder of the Re-Earth Initiative, contributes to the Pavilion’s narrative with her focus on engaging communities and fostering a sense of global responsibility. Laurel Kivuyo, founder of Climate Hub Tanzania, brings a unique perspective from the African continent, emphasizing the importance of diverse voices in the climate dialogue.
Musical contributions come from Nile Rodgers, known for his guitar prowess and influential contributions to the music industry. The Pavilion also hosts a spoken word performance by Isavela Lopez, offering a poignant narrative of environmental injustices in Mexico and the United States.
These talents, along with others, represent a mosaic of experiences, expertise, and creativity. Their collective presence reinforces the Pavilion’s commitment to fostering a truly global and inclusive dialogue on the crucial intersection of culture and climate.
A Vision Unveiled: E+C Pavilion’s Long-Term Impact
In the heart of COP28, the Entertainment + Culture Pavilion materializes as more than a spectacle; it’s a visionary force intertwining creativity and climate advocacy. Beyond the dazzling events, the Pavilion paints a vision of collaboration, birthing a promise for a sustained presence in global conversations. This isn’t just an artistic spectacle; it’s a mission to align with the Paris Agreement’s ambitions.
Photo by Ian Dooley
The Pavilion calls for the creative industries to decarbonize, transforming into a stage where the entertainment industry becomes a protagonist in the fight against climate change. It’s a canvas where disciplines intertwine, giving birth to artistic expressions narrating tales of resilience in the face of climate challenges. Here, existing initiatives find a home, converging knowledge to avoid duplication.
The Pavilion acts as a haven for collective wisdom, echoing the argument for the expansion of cultural spaces championing climate causes. Amidst this vision, the Pavilion’s programming themes beat like a heart, each echoing a different facet of the climate story. From the struggle for audiovisual sovereignty to the harmonious blend of music and ritual in service of science-based targets, the themes become threads that create a landscape of climate narratives. As the Pavilion unfolds its programming, it ceases to be just a platform; it transforms into a living, breathing entity — a storyteller in the grand theater of climate action.
![Elders Chen Shifan, Dai Bisheng, Chen Shida and Jiang Xinglong, sing Wa Wu Mountain Song in the field in Yaozu, the Yao ethnic town in Longhui county, Central China's Hunan province on Aug 25, 2012. [Photo/Xinhua]](https://greenandbeyondmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/d4bed9d4d22011a5532617-1.jpg)
