1 Minute to Save the World, an online international film competition, is proving that young people can have a huge impact on raising environmental awareness: from across the globe they have submitted one-minute films on the subject of climate change, making sure that their voices are heard by the world leaders and advisers who determine policy. They are the next generation of environmental activists using the internet and film to get their messages and ideas seen and heard by mass audiences online.
The Best Youth Film Award, sponsored by Unicef and SONY Open Planet, was won by the children and staff at Wilbury Primary School, Class 4B, in the UK for their film - above - 'Give the Colours Back to the Earth'. 'The children are thrilled to have won first prize,' said Headteacher Sandra Heaviside. 'It is a tremendous achievement as it was our first attempt at this kind of competition. The children are very concerned about the effects of climate change, and were very enthusiastic to present their ideas in the form of an animation'. SONY’s Emily Nicoll who sat on the judging panel, stated that the film carried 'evocative storytelling, passionate narration and lovely animation, combining to set out the issues and to seek solutions in children's ideas and actions.' The UNICEF Youth Climate Ambassadors said that 'the innocence of the children’s voices is contrasted against the somber message and helps convey how they will be affected most'. The winners will receive the new SONY NEX VG10 camcorder, with runners-up winning a Latitude E4300 Laptop and Minos Ultra 60 min. FlipCam.
The winning films are now being distributed across the internet encouraging positive action and change at a grass roots level.
Following the announcement of the winners, The 1 minute to save the world 2011 competition is due to start shortly inviting a new batch of young activists to join the fight against global warming armed with cameras and talent. We’ve seen an empowered generation issue a stern mandate through eco-activism and entertainment; we look now to continue to remind those with the capacity to make tangible change that it is urgent they do so.
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VIDEO 1 minute to save the world - Film Competition 1minutetosavetheworld.com is an online film competition that encourages people from all over the world to submit a one minute length film about climate change. |
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SPECIAL CONTENT 1 minute to save the world - FiIm Competition New film awards showcase young talent and their efforts to build a better future |
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HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE The Ecologist guide to video activism The video camera is the weapon of choice for activists and campaigners around the world, with campaign films an effective way to get a message across and fight back against mainstream media bias. Here's our guide to taking your stand... |
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VIDEO My Paper Boat: the harsh reality of climate change The compelling film about the harsh reality of climate change which won last year's '1 minute to save the world' film competition to highlight the impacts of climate change |
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VIDEO Just do it movie: direct action in the UK A documentary that follows UK climate activists as they take on the combined forces of global capitalism, run-away climate change and the metropolitan police. Set for release in early 2011 |
