Impacts of climate change are disproportionate, depending upon the individual’s geographical location, age, gender, political and socio-economic conditions, and the privileges that come with them. These important multifaceted aspects of climate change are often lost when put together as data. Films, stories and art, on the other hand, give a face to every data point, and humanise them through unique real-life experiences.

Seated person in traditional Indian garments

Films to reveal climate impact

Led by a team from the School of GeoSciences, the Chasing Sustainability presents an anthology film featuring three documentaries made by regional filmmakers from India and Pakistan. The films reflect the multifaceted experiences of climate change, revealing its impact at both an individual and community level in these regions.

Avoiding scripts, the documentary films evolve based on lived experiences, human emotions, empathy and scientific evidence.

A platform for deeper engagement

By showcasing the films in the UK, South Asia and beyond, the Chasing Sustainability team aims to bolster youth voices and deepen their awareness of, connection and inspiration to address climate change issues and work for localised, inclusive, compassionate and sustainable solutions for economic and social welfare. A series of teaching resources also allow young people to engage with the films and to effectively absorb the nuanced concepts that they portray.

The impact of the project reaches far beyond the deliverables it produced. The team included both fixed-term and permanent staff and was led by a woman who is a person of colour – challenging knowledge hierarchies in academia. It provided a meaningful platform for team members, especially those from the Global South, to thrive and build confidence.

Chasing Sustainability is a cross-disciplinary project, with a wide array of people from arts, science, humanities and the general public contributing to the project, and enriching it with diverse knowledge, shared respect and civility.

Name: Dr Anjali Jayakumar
Email: anjali.jayakumar@ed.ac.uk
Website: https://www.ed.ac.uk/sustainable-forests-landscapes/chasing-sustainability-film