As global warming advances and the world tips towards more challenging times there is an urgent need to connect young people with nature so that we can shift the trajectory of our planet’s future.
The nourishing now campaign is a set of films that offers hope and direction in a creative way. It imagines people, communities, and entire cities that have become devoid of any colour. In a grey world, how does one bring colour back into our life? The answer is simple and Nature shows us the way. Each film covers a unique course of action in which nature can bring health, wealth and happiness into our life.
Even in the darkest times, there is always a path back to colour and joy.
Ladakh
**Film credits are in the video description on Youtube | Film duration: 3 min.
Short Film Berang: This film tells a fascinating story from the ice desert region of Ladakh in the Himalaya. Ladakh, known for its stark beauty and towering Himalayan peaks, is not untouched by the hands of climate change. Once a land of icy winters and clear, crisp air, it now faces unpredictable weather patterns and rapidly melting glaciers. These glaciers, the lifeline of the region, are shrinking at an alarming rate, threatening water supplies for both people and crops. Locals, who have relied on glacial melt for centuries to irrigate their fields, are witnessing a change they can neither predict nor control. Studies show that glaciers in Ladakh are retreating by 15-30 meters annually, putting communities and their way of life at risk.
But Ladakh also holds hope for the future. With abundant sunlight and strong winds, the region is ideal for renewable energy solutions. Solar power is already lighting up remote villages, reducing the reliance on firewood and fossil fuels, and offering a path forward. If we invest more in harnessing these natural, clean energy sources, we can not only slow down the effects of climate change but also offer Ladakhis a sustainable future—one that remains in harmony with their environment. Check out the work of Himalayan Institute of Alternatives to know more.
Renewables as an opportunity: In 2022, India ranked as the third-largest producer of renewable energy in the world, with nearly 40% of its installed energy capacity coming from non-fossil fuel sources. The potential for growth is immense. Solar power alone has the ability to transform India’s energy landscape. With over 300 sunny days a year, vast stretches of desert, and unused land, India could generate enough solar energy not just to meet its own needs, but to export it as well.
Pune
*Film credits are in the video description on Youtube | Film duration: 2 min.
Short Film Rang: This film has been shot in Pune, one of India’s many rapidly changing cities. Pune was once a no-fan station, where even in hot Indian summers you could do without having a fan. Blessed with a unique geographical location under the foothills of western ghats – the rivers and green cover of Pune kept it cool and provided it with one of the best weather in our country. A rapidly growing population and the large scale of construction has resulted in the loss of city’s forests, as well as pollution of its seven rivers. Pune now faces heat waves, flooding in monsoon, as well as water scarcity in many areas.
A small collective of people are however trying to protect and restore the city’s nature. One such group is the Anandvan Foundation that is aiming to transform Pune into a city of urban forests. With active involvement from Pune’s youth as well corporates and the forest department, they are making significant shifts in nourshing the spirit of Pune and its nature.
Rewilding as an opportunity: About 55.76 million hectares i.e. 16.96% of Total Geographical Area (TGA) of India is categorised as wastelands. These areas are currently under-utilized and deteriorating due to a lack of appropriate resource management or on account of natural causes. It offers a big opportunity in engaging our youth and solving the complex puzzle humanity faces for its future.
Nourishing Now vs Frightening Future
The climate crisis is often framed in alarming terms—rising sea levels, scorching heatwaves, and vanishing forests. While the urgency is undeniable, this focus on catastrophe is stirring anxiety, especially among young people. In fact, a 2021 global survey found that 59% of youth feel “very” or “extremely worried” about climate change, with 45% saying their feelings about it affect their daily lives . A sense of dread can be overwhelming, making many feel disconnected from nature rather than inspired to protect it.
Instead, we need to nurture a different narrative—one that highlights the simple joy and healing power of nature. Encouraging young people to experience the outdoors, to plant trees, to learn about local ecosystems, can nourish a sense of hope. When we connect with nature in the present, we begin to see solutions rather than just problems. By nourishing the now, we can inspire action without fear, shifting the course of our future towards something better.
Nourishing Now Concept
The Nourishing Now initiative is the brainchild of ‘ComMutiny – The Youth Collective’. ComMutiny has been working with young people since 2008. Their goal is to build vibrant ecosystems and empowering spaces that nurture the leadership potential of young people towards transforming self and society.
Our role at Filmkaar was to bring this concept to life in a creative way and produce engaging films that can connect with a large number of people. Please leave a comment to let us know your thoughts and ideas.
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