A powerful encounter unfolded recently when 12-year-old activist Skye Neville confronted a senior executive from Nestlé during a screening of the documentary Future Council. Skye, who hails from a Welsh village vulnerable to climate change, bluntly called out the executive for defending the company’s plastic packaging practices. This moment of tension left the executive momentarily speechless, ultimately leading to an admission that large corporations often lose sight of their responsibilities within “the wider eco-system.”
Skye’s activism began early, as she launched a campaign against plastic in children’s comics and magazines. Her determination reflects the urgent concerns of her community, situated on a coastal flood plain that faces significant risks from rising sea levels. As part of the Future Council, a group of eight young activists assembled by Australian filmmaker Damon Gameau, Skye and her peers embark on a journey across Europe, aiming to engage with leaders of major corporations.
Gameau, who initially gained recognition for his documentary That Sugar Film, has shifted focus to climate issues. His 2019 film 2040 serves as a foundation for Future Council, which highlights young people’s insights into sustainability. During auditions for the film, over a thousand children expressed their commitment to environmental activism, demonstrating a level of knowledge that often surpasses that of adults.
Engaging Corporate Leaders
The young activists travel in a yellow bus, meeting fellow campaigners and striving to secure discussions with executives from the world’s largest polluters. Nestlé’s willingness to participate in this initiative stands out, as many other corporations declined the opportunity. In another notable encounter, the chief executive of ING responded to the group with a friendly yet cautious demeanor. He stated that the bank has ceased investments in coal mining and is distancing itself from clients failing to transition away from fossil fuels.
While his comments were reasonable, they did not fully satisfy Joaquin Minana, a young Dutch activist who took the lead in questioning ING’s approach. Supported by his peers, Joaquin proposed that young individuals be included on corporate boards or at least serve as advisers. This suggestion sparked a recurring theme throughout their journey, highlighting the importance of youth perspectives in corporate decision-making.
The documentary not only showcases the passionate efforts of these young activists but also sheds light on the challenges they face in advocating for change. As they engage with corporate leaders, the activists aim to bridge the gap between environmental concerns and corporate responsibilities.
As the screening of Future Council approaches on August 7, the film promises to inspire audiences by spotlighting the voices of a generation deeply invested in the future of the planet. Through their activism, these children are not only challenging the status quo but also advocating for a more sustainable world.
