Actor Harrison Ford, Vice Chair of Conservation International, has been involved with the non-profit for over four decades, leveraging his Star Wars fame and success to contribute to their ambitious efforts. At a recent event, Ford joined Jeff Bezos and Patricia Sánchez to discuss how to address pressing environmental issues. Bezos emphasized the importance of valuing nature, beauty, and poetry as driving forces for collaboration and innovation. He stressed the need to move forward in a world of abundance while also protecting nature, highlighting the potential for positive change.
Hope was a key theme of the evening, with Sánchez discussing the Bezos Earth Fund’s Greening America’s Cities initiative, aimed at improving green spaces in underserved urban areas. This initiative not only fosters community but also encourages children to prioritize nature and conservation from a young age. Shailene Woodley, an environmental activist and Conservation International Board member, praised the organization for being proactive and focused on positive action rather than just reacting to challenges. Conservation International has dubbed this period the “decisive decade” and is striving to make significant strides in conservation efforts.
In a video narrated by Idris Elba, another Conservation International Board member, the urgent need to protect the environment was highlighted. Elba emphasized that there is a limited window of time, less than a decade, to make significant changes and slow climate change. The organization is focused on transforming various industries, starting with farming and fashion, to promote sustainable practices and protect natural resources. Conservation International Chair Peter Seligmann reiterated the need for hope and a collective effort to achieve their ambitious goals.
Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, joined CI’s CEO Dr. M. Sanjayan for a discussion on the power of optimism and proactive change. Ardern emphasized the importance of expecting better and maintaining optimism, even in the face of challenges. She encouraged young people to have high expectations and demand positive change, highlighting the role of hope in driving progress. The event showcased the dedication and optimism of the environmental activists and leaders involved in Conservation International, who are working towards a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
