GREENWASH. Director's Statement
I am proud to introduce "GREENWASH," a stand-alone short film from the HUMAN CONCEPTS series. Unlike the other installments, "GREENWASH" won’t be available online; instead, it will be exclusively showcased at select film festivals and venues. This unique positioning within the series means the film remains unnumbered, setting it apart as a special entry.
And this film is indeed special for me. It is born from my deep engagement with the environmental movement and my firsthand experiences at international climate conferences like COP27 in Egypt and COP28 in the U.A.E. This film is an emotional and personal critique of the environmental movement, exploring the profound discrepancies between the public face of environmental advocacy and the underlying realities I've witnessed.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work alongside governments and interview experts and politicians dedicated to combating climate change. I’ve done this work because I strongly believe in this cause. And yes, these experiences have enriched my understanding, but they have also left me with a mix of emotions and a critical perspective on the authenticity of some of the leaders, voices, and people in the climate space.
"GREENWASH" delves into the paradoxes of the commercialized, 21st century green movement. While many join to genuinely foster change, a striking number are entangled in motives that dilute the movement’s integrity, rendering it exclusive and classist. My film confronts the uncomfortable truth that the blame often placed on average individuals for environmental issues is a diversion from the systemic failures perpetuated by those in power.
The film draws from my unsettling observations at COP27, and the rows of world leaders arriving in private jets to negotiate terms that seldom prioritize genuine environmental progress. The reality is often a negotiation playground for the more privileged, with little regard for the pressing environmental crises we face.
Despite these challenges, I have met incredible individuals within the climate space whose dedication inspires me. "GREENWASH" is a reflection of both the disillusionment and the aspiration that define the current state of environmental advocacy. It is a call to rally for meaningful change.
Since its debut, "GREENWASH" has received three international awards and has been featured in renowned cinemas and art spaces around the world. I warmly invite you to attend one of the film’s upcoming screenings or special events. There will also be opportunities to watch "GREENWASH" online in the future. Thank you for your continued support, and I hope this film sparks meaningful reflection and conversation.
From Barcelona with love,
Andres.