Let us be clear: global systemic change is what is most needed to stop climate change. But there are ways we can make an impact, whether it’s advocating for change, reducing our own consumption or continuing to learn about the climate crisis.
What better way to reflect, learn, and find inspiration than with one of these books, movies or podcasts recommended by our Elevate Prize winners and our team?
Books:
1. Less is More by Jason Hickel
A powerful call for balance and restoration, this disrupter book, recommended by EarthEnable Co-Founder, Gayatri Datar, is equal parts thought-provoking and inspiring. “The book explores fresh ways of thinking about our relationship with the world around us. It encourages a shift from seeing things in simple ‘us versus them’ terms to embracing a more interconnected view. It invites us to reconsider how we organize our economic systems, urging us to adopt a more integrated approach that acknowledges our connections with all living beings.” says Gayatri.
2. We Are Water Protectors, written by Carole Lindstrom and illustrated by Michaela Goade
Though We Are Water Protectors is written for children 3-6, we think it’s an incredible read at any age – in fact, it’s one of our Marketing Manager Danielle Wolfe’s all-time favorites! The book was written to raise awareness of the Dakota Access Pipeline protests at The Standing Rock Reservation, and tells the story of a young Ojibwe child as she and her people try to protect their way of life from an oil pipeline, represented by a black snake.
3. No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference, by Greta Thunberg
We love this collection of speeches by climate activist Greta Thunberg given when she was just 17 years old during a year that started as a solo climate strike to a global movement. Her passion and conviction leap off the page, and inspire us to action – in the words of Greta, “We are the change, and the change is coming.”
4. An Inconvenient Truth
“An Inconvenient Truth was probably the documentary that left the biggest impression on me as a kid,” says Elevate Prize winner Sam Bencheghib, co-founder, Sungai Watch. “I was only 10 years old when it came out in 2006 and it opened my eyes to the crazy world I was about to enter and how much work was needed to reverse the impacts of a rapidly changing climate.” A passionate plea for action, this film is a classic for a reason. If you haven’t seen it, make this Earth Month the time that you change that. Or check out An Inconvenient Sequel (2017), to learn more about progress being made towards renewable energy and the signing of the Paris Agreement.
5. Before the Flood
Rachel Silverstein, Elevate Prize winner and Executive Director of Miami Waterkeeper, recommends this powerful documentary, in which actor and activist Leonardo DiCaprio travels the world to witness first-hand the impact of climate change.
“Leonardo DiCaprio interviewed me and my team about the impact of climate on corals, and later invited me to participate in a panel with him. He used his celebrity status to move the needle on nature and climate issues, setting an outstanding example to his substantial following.”
6. WALL-E
The Pixar classic tells the story of a lonely robot, tasked with cleaning up a future, uninhabited earth, and reminds us of the importance of sustainability and stewardship.“This is the perfect movie to watch with your kids this month!” says Cara Politi, our Senior Community Manager. “My daughter and I love it!”
7. Our Planet
This breathtaking documentary series showcases the beauty of our planet’s ecosystems while also addressing the threats they face from human activity. It’s an important reminder to, in the words of narrator Sir David Attenborough, “Cherish the natural world, because you’re a part of it and you depend on it.”
8. The Joy Report
The Joy Report is dedicated to sharing stories about climate solutions and environmental justice grounded in intersectionality, which, in the words of host Arielle King “help us turn our feelings of climate doom and despair into climate optimism.” The podcast explains challenges and explores solutions that are already driving change, drawing in diverse thinking and voices. It always leaves us feeling calm, energized, inspired, and ready to do our part to help.”
9.Hey Change. A podcast to change the world
Looking for an optimistic climate change podcast? You’ve come to the right place. Co-hosts Anne Therese Gennari and Robin Shaw speak with scientists, experts and activists about the challenges we face, always focusing on the action we can take to overcome them.
10. Ramblings
Take a walk through the British countryside with presenter Clare Balding and her fascinating guests. We love how the program makes us feel like we’ve really been on a walk, experiencing nature, weather, and the conversations that people have on the trail. It’s a reminder of how the simple act of going outside for a stroll can have a spirit-lifting, perspective-changing impact.
Special thanks to Sam Bencheghib, Co-Founder of Sungai Watch, Gayatri Datar, Co-Founder of EarthEnable,and Rachel Silverstein, Executive Director of Miami Waterkeeper for your wisdom and input!
