Considering Climate Risk in Film Programming
Even the most carefully planned programs can be disrupted by climate realities. A sudden storm, rising tides, or extreme heat can derail activities that are meant to inspire change. The truth is: no matter who you are or where you’re working, climate risk is increasingly shaping what is possible.
Climate Risks Are Everyone’s Reality
From global industries like textiles to small grassroots projects, climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is here shifting seasons, intensifying storms, and forcing communities to adapt in real time. For those leading local initiatives, integrating climate risk into planning is not optional; it’s essential for resilience.
BlueCommunities on the Frontlines
Our BlueCommunities are experiencing these challenges first-hand. In Ghana, for example, Jennifer Bampoe from Clean Ocean Project Ghana organized a community movie night, an event meant to bring people together to learn and take action for their ocean. Yet despite careful planning, a major storm rolled in, disrupting the event. It wasn’t even the rainy season, highlighting how unpredictable the climate has become.
Lessons in Adaptation
Instead of seeing these disruptions as failures, they must be embraced as lessons. Taking climate risk into account means:
Expecting the unexpected. Storms, droughts, and heat waves may hit outside “normal” seasons.
Building flexibility into programs. Include backup plans that keep engagement alive even if events are disrupted.
Centering local knowledge. Communities like Jennifer’s are already adapting, and their strategies offer invaluable guidance.
Moving Forward Together
Climate change will continue to challenge programming efforts, from film screenings to large-scale conservation projects. But by acknowledging these risks and preparing for them, we can ensure that momentum is not lost when disruptions occur.