BAFTA and its sister organization albert made a significant impact at the recent COP28 climate change conference in Dubai by putting climate storytelling at the forefront. Carys Taylor, the newly appointed Director of Climate Content and Sustainability, led the organizations’ efforts to ensure that the film and TV industry played an active role in the conversation about achieving net zero.
Taylor emphasized the importance of the industry participating in climate discussions rather than sitting on the sidelines. She explained that their purpose at COP was to represent the industry, demonstrate its momentum, and identify any gaps in support and public information.
During the conference, BAFTA collaborated with international sustainability agency Futerra, impact producers ThinkFilm, and the Bellona Foundation to create the Storytelling for Action pavilion. The pavilion hosted various events and masterclasses that explored the why and how of climate storytelling, showcased indigenous storytellers, and featured climate scientist and stand-up comic Dr. Matt Winning.
The significance of climate storytelling in the film and TV industry is increasingly recognized, with creators and audiences gravitating towards climate-related projects. For instance, Jodie Comer starred in The End We Start From, a film centered around a woman fleeing an environmental disaster. Acclaimed director Adam McKay has also revealed that his next project will focus on climate change. In the UK, broadcasters such as ITV and Channel 4 are incorporating sustainability messages and climate-related content into their programming.
To further their efforts, BAFTA and albert are collaborating with global partners, including the U.S.-based Climate Storytelling Stakeholders in Entertainment. Research commissioned by albert, conducted by the University of York, highlighted the audience demand for climate content that spans genres and intersects with social issues. The study emphasized the importance of local stories and content that showcases solutions.
Taylor emphasized that climate storytelling is no longer limited to news or natural history programs. Instead, it aims to facilitate public participation in conversations about reaching net zero and mainstreaming climate-related discussions.
By attending COP28 and establishing the Storytelling for Action pavilion, BAFTA and albert have made a significant impact on the intersection of film, TV, and climate change. They have not only showcased the industry’s engagement but also emphasized the importance of climate storytelling in raising awareness and encouraging action on climate issues.
The growing recognition of climate storytelling’s potential and the audience appetite for climate content across genres further solidify its importance within the industry. With broadcasters in the UK signing a Climate Content Pledge and aligning their activities, the industry is joining forces to address climate challenges and drive meaningful change.
The presence of BAFTA and albert at COP28 and their ongoing efforts to collaborate globally demonstrate their commitment to promoting climate storytelling and ensuring the industry plays an active role in the journey to net zero. By harnessing the power of storytelling, the film and TV community can inspire, educate, and engage audiences worldwide on the pressing issue of climate change.
