TORONTO, CANADA and CHICAGO, IL, USA—Young environmental filmmakers will find two opportunities to showcase their work through the collaboration of two non-profits: the Youth Climate Report (YCR) based in Toronto, Canada, and One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest (OEYFC) based in Chicago, IL, USA. Both organizations seek films about climate change and related topics.
"You could say we're 'doubling down' on the power of environmental filmmaking to create greater impact," says Dr. Mark Terry, Executive Director of the Youth Climate Report. "Our decision to collaborate with the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest stems from the shared values and common goals we have in addressing climate issues. Our efforts align so closely, and together, we can amplify the message in ways that truly make a difference."
The Youth Climate Report is an interactive film database project supported by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Environmental short films by students ages 18 to 35—or younger if supervised by an adult—from around the world are uploaded to Google MyMaps for delegates at the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP). These films help to connect real life climate impacts to the scientific data to assist with policy decisions. Deadline is Aug. 31, 2025; learn more here.
One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest accepts 3-to-8-minute environmental films—or animations as short as 45 seconds—from young creators worldwide, ages 8 to 25. Films must inspire change or action, and younger applicants are asked to focus on one of the following topics: climate, energy, food, transportation, waste, water, or wildlife and ecosystems. Scholarships and prizes are awarded from $100 to $1,000, with special awards for creativity, environmental action, and more. Winning films are also featured at the annual One Earth Film Festival in Chicago. Deadline is May 25, 2025; learn more here.
"Our mission is to empower young voices in the fight against climate change, giving them a platform to share their stories, concerns, and hopes for the future," says Sue Crothers, Founding Director of the One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest. "For too long, decisions about their future have been made without their input. This collaboration is a powerful reminder that their perspectives are not only valued—they are essential in shaping the solutions that will define the world they inherit."
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Youth Climate Report:
Mark Terry, Executive Director
Email: [email protected], Tel: 416-899-5855
UNFCCC Website: tinyurl.com/YCR-2024
One Earth Young Filmmakers Contest:
Lisa Files, Program Director
Email: [email protected], 708-267-5713
Website: oneearthfilmfest.org/contest-details