Beyond Zero: A Film Sparks Hope, Reflection, and Dialogue about Climate Action
As Bard deepens its partnerships with local organizations, gatherings like the "Beyond Zero" film screening serve as a clear reminder that meaningful change can be achieved when institutions, businesses, and communities unite in pursuit of a common goal.
Last Thursday, Bard hosted a screening of "Beyond Zero," directed by Nathan Havey, as part of Sustainable Hudson Valley Climate Solutions Week. In collaboration with local organizations such as Ozone and Sustainable Hudson Valley, the event provided a great platform for discussions around sustainability, corporatism, and the climate crisis.
The film recounts the journey of Ray Anderson, founder of Interface Carpets, who channeled his entrepreneurial ambition into a mode for sustainability. His commitment to creating a business model that restored, rather than harmed, the environment was met with emotional reactions, with some audience members moved to tears by its powerful message of hope.
A key theme of the evening was the power of collective action. The Office of Sustainability has been instrumental in connecting the campus with off-campus groups like the Red Hook Climate Smart Committee, facilitating community dialogue and action.
After the screening, attendees participated in a thoughtful discussion led by Beate Liepert, Director of Bard’s Environmental Studies concentration. Bob Fox, an architect who worked closely with Anderson, offered his optimistic perspective on the future of sustainability within capital investments. His viewpoint sparked important conversations about the role of corporations in addressing climate change, as well as the generational divide on the feasibility of achieving sustainability in corporate America.
The film offered hope, but there was a sense of urgency about the barriers standing in the way. Liepert shared her reflections on her journey as a scientist and educator, admitting that she sometimes questions whether her work in science alone is enough. "I’ve worked as a scientist providing the science behind the climate crisis, but I sometimes wonder whether it would’ve been better to be an activist, to make people take action instead," she said. "Now I have a bit of an 'I told you so' moment, which scares me. This is why I teach—to create conscious young minds."
This led to a powerful exchange of ideas, with many in the room offering thoughts on what it will truly take for society to wake up and take meaningful action. Vanessa Bertozzi, a member of the Climate Smart Task Force for the Village of Rhinebeck and a Partner for Climate Action, said, “I was particularly inspired by how Interface went beyond achieving net zero impact and took steps toward becoming a net positive organization, actively contributing to environmental restoration rather than just minimizing harm.” Bertozzi emphasized the power of door-to-door canvassing work and local engagement, stressing how important building community awareness and involvement from the ground up.
As the event drew to a close, there were signs of renewed commitment. Luka Lash-St. John, a first-year student pursuing a concentration in Environmental Studies with intended majors in Biology and Studio Art, shared her thoughts during the post-screening discussion— saying she was "hopeful to see that individuals within corporate structures can prioritize sustainability and the planet's future.”
As Bard deepens its partnerships with local organizations, gatherings like this one serve as a clear reminder that meaningful change can be achieved when institutions, businesses, and communities unite in pursuit of a common goal.
Post Date: 09-27-2024