Four Things I Learned at the 2022 Environmental Media Awards
Earlier this month, the annual EMA Awards in Hollywood brought together executives, celebrities, influencers, and activists to celebrate the entertainment industry's drive to showcase just and equitable climate stories in all available mediums. As the availability and format of media consumption grow, from traditional film and TV to modern streaming and the web, all mediums are embracing the need to tell stories that reflect the state of our planet and the people who thrive on it.
Highlights of the night included superstar Billie Eilish receiving the EMA Missions in Music Award for her environmental work alongside her mother, Maggie Baird, founder of Support + Feed. Also, EMA Board Member and Innovator Award recipient Nikki Reed stressed the role businesses play in protecting our planet.
It is inspiring that so many come together to celebrate the power of storytelling for environmental justice, climate action, and sustainable innovations. With that said, I am excited to share with you all the main takeaways that resonated with many of us from the night.
The Importance of Turning Talk into Action
My first takeaway has gained a lot of momentum as of late. There is a big difference between talk and action, from showing support to taking the initiative. It is one thing to pledge a cause or share ways to make a positive impact, but another to help create that impact with your own decisions. Pop superstar Billie Eilish made this point very clear when addressing the frustration she experiences at how people pretend to care about environmental issues without making the necessary changes themselves. She went on to credit her mother, Maggie, as someone who walks the walk.
Diana Davis, representing our presenting sponsor, Toyota Motor North America, spoke during a keynote to highlight that sustainability has always been a core company value. Further, Toyota is doing more than just talking about it; they are making action happen. So, it was hopeful to hear Diana share with the audience how Toyota aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 90% before 2050. Diana said, "I think it's important to remember it's how we respond to what we are experiencing on the road to sustainability that ultimately defines all of us."
That statement spoke to me as we cannot always control what happens to us, but we do hold control over our reactions and what we do in response. I am encouraged to see leaders in the entertainment and business sectors urge this point.
What We Do Now Will Determine Our Children's Future
Another point that caught my attention was the future, namely the children of the world. We must invest more in the next generation's well-being, so they have the knowledge and opportunities to make a difference wherever they are. What brought this realization to light for me was when EMA Board Member and honoree, Nikki Reed, shared how important it is to show kids today that we have a plan and follow through with it. A mom herself, Nikki gave a heartfelt speech talking about her journey and how transformative becoming a mother has been for her. Curiosity and compassion were two themes that connected so well as she explained what it means to be an ideal steward of our planet for our children. "We really need to teach our kids to fall in love with nature. Otherwise, there is no future." I couldn't have said that better myself.
In addition, the winners for the Children's Television category, Kid Correspondent, capped off their acceptance speech by letting all of us know it is their wish to teach kids about how their choices impact our planet. What power the generation already has!
Using a Platform for Good
When it came to celebrities, I began understanding their ability to create positive change with their platforms. Maggie Baird, Billie's mother, drove this point across during her speech as she brought up the phenomenon of animal agriculture. Maggie used the example of factory farming and veganism as a way for influential people to make a difference. How exciting! Maggie was not alone in this sentiment as Nikki Reed also shared that she wants "to look back and say, 'I was there, and I did something.'" It does give me hope the more I see the accountability those with influence are taking on, as they understand their de facto position as role models for the current and newer generations. Another EMA Award winner, Dr. Reyland Brandt, winner of the documentary series America the Beautiful "Brave New World" by National Geographic, voiced her enthusiasm for the series. She commemorated the other talented individuals in the same category for seeing the diversity in these stories and that "we're recognized."
You don't need me to tell you that beloved scientist for children and adults, Bill Nye, summed up the message to maximum effect when he said, "we make the world better with…science!" In a time when science has been questioned or downright mistrusted, we must view science as nature's response to the problems we are facing and a push in the direction of finding solutions it.
Learning is a Lifelong Endeavor
My final takeaway from the evening was simple but lasting. That is to embrace life-long learning because it may save our planet. As many celebrities, corporate executives, and eco-influencers shared through the ceremony, change is uncomfortable because of what it brings, yet that is what we are working towards: a difference. Focusing on key ingredients, such as curiosity, compassion, and accountability, I remind myself and others that everyone is always in a classroom as we are lifelong students. If life is the classroom, I am determined to learn as much as I can today in hopes that one day, I can be the teacher for the next wave of students.
I'd like to thank the Environmental Media Association, our sponsors, Board, and everyone who made the 2022 EMA Awards possible. Storytelling is a powerful tool to save our planet, your story matters!
Learn more about the 2022 EMA Awards here.
Written by Demitri Fierro, ISSP-SEA (MBA Candidate in Sustainable Management)