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London is incredibly important for film, acting and the written word. London is unbelievably good at producing people who are truly at the top of their respective games. From Alfred Hitchcock to Christopher Nolan, from Sir Ian McKellan to Idris Elba. London can now be seen to be the focus of films that are made for change, for global improvement, for equality.
London Eco- Film Festival is an event to inspire as well as inform, at a time where, due to global political, economical and environmental instability, millennials are questioning their ability to shape their own future. Individuals must be empowered, and we want to do that by demonstrating how important the actions of committed people can be. We want to combine the talent of filmmakers around the world with those people on the ground making a difference, which will provide a platform to demonstrate the difference that committed individuals can make. LEFF19 will be presented primarily across three performance spaces and a three-screen cinema at one of the London’s most diverse and dynamic arts centres, Rich Mix. Also, with an ever-expanding number of fantastic venues across the city joining the LEFF19 screening network, there are going to be venues to cater for all tastes. Scientists, environmentalists and naturalists study and protect the world in which we live, whereas filmmakers interpret and divulge this knowledge and expertise to society. The focus of the LEFF19 will be on youth and community impact across the Commonwealth and English speaking world - the people behind conservation. We will be focussing on the following specific areas: Eco-Heroes: Individuals who have initiated an environmental project of their own, or who have gone out of their way in the field of conservation. Women in Conservation: Every day, women take on tasks both small and large to help the planet. We want to highlight their stories and celebrate their work. Story Telling: Storytelling is an art form, and enables people to develop a deeper connection with the subject material. Storytelling is a fundamental human experience that unites people and drives stronger, deeper connections. From the earliest recorded history, storytelling was a method used by cavemen to communicate, educate, share, and connect. We want to showcase the best of storytelling from around the world. Plastic Pollution: In 1950, the world’s population of 2.5 billion produced 1.5 million tons of plastic; in 2016, a global population of more than 7 billion people produced over 320 million tons of plastic. This is set to double by 2034. Every day approximately 8 million pieces of plastic pollution find their way into our oceans. There may now be around 5.25 trillion macro and microplastic pieces floating in the open ocean. There are organisations and individuals around the world that are working hard to overcome the use of and the damage caused by plastics. Volunteering: Volunteering for nature or wildlife conservation covers various activities designed to manage and restore habitats and species and to raise awareness on the importance of biodiversity. The experience of volunteering can help people learn new skills, become socially integrated, and contribute to a better future. Mobilising volunteers helps protect nature in numerous ways. It enables activities that would otherwise not be possible and involves society in conservation activities, which leads to greater public awareness, trust, and ownership of the process. We want to celebrate the achievements of volunteers and volunteer organisations around the world. Extinction Rebellion: We want to showcase the work of Extinction Rebellion. Extinction Rebellion is an international movement that uses non-violent civil disobedience in an attempt to halt mass extinction and minimise the risk of social collapse. They are focussed on creating a world that is fit for generations to come by mobilising their target of 3.5% of the population to achieve system change - using ideas such as "Momentum-driven organising" to achieve this. They believe in creating a culture which is healthy, resilient and adaptable. They are working to break down hierarchies of power for more equitable participation through the use of non-violent strategy and tactics as the most effective way to bring about change. They are based on autonomy and decentralisation, anyone who follows these core principles and values can take action in the name of Extinction Rebellion. Intelligent Conversation: People living in poverty may experience lifelong consequences. Poverty affects families in the numerous ways: Educational problems, behavioral problems physical health problems, mental health problems and reduced overall well-being. We want to speak to people to hear their stories, how they have ended up in these situations and also highlight the work being done to improve the lives of the often forgotten members of society. Earth Day: Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First celebrated in 1970, it now includes events coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network in more than 193 countries. We want to showcase the work that has been done because of this annual celebration as we look forward to the 50th Year. Individuals around the world make huge sacrifices in the name of conservation and we want to provide a platform to celebrate not just the results of conservation, but the people behind the success. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; |