Climate economy, cleantech and innovation, greener living, and environmental policy were all discussions at the Bloomberg Green Festival that took place last week in Seattle. The five day convention brought together politicians, musicians, and filmmakers who held various discussions and performances, centered around the environmental future of our planet. 

The festival had an array of panelists, including government leaders, youth activists, celebrities, and grassroots organizers, of all ages and backgrounds, such as actor, filmmaker, and environmentalist Adrian Grenier, the White House’s First Climate advisor, Gina McCarthy, and many more. The mayor of Seattle, Bruce Harrell, also stopped by to say a few words on how to make the city of Seattle greener and more environmentally friendly.

Individual choices related to climate have long term effects on our planet and inevitably our communities. The Bloomberg Green Festival was an opportunity to discuss different strategies on how communities can come together and make progressive changes, and greener laws, to ensure the protection and future of our planet.  

Voting rights activist and New York Times best selling author, Stacy Abrams, was one of the key speakers of the event. Abrams’ goal is to create an equitable future for young people and to break barriers for the political education of marginalized groups and people of color. The author took the stage on Thursday to discuss upgrading electrical power, accessibility for low income families when it comes to climate action, and the upcoming election taking place in November. 

“The climate future relies on each person being able to make the best decisions for themselves, for their families, and their communities,” she said. “Political leadership is about making those choices as easy as possible, and making them as beneficial as possible to those who feel the least access to power.”

The Climate Creative Stage was the cultural hub of the event. Artists, dancers, and performers came together for various performances that examined environmental justice through artistic expression. Climate activist and drag queen, Pattie Gonia, who is the co-founder of Outdoorist Oath, performed and emceed throughout the week. Outdoorist Oath is a non profit organization that brings together people to take action and support the planet through outdoor adventures and workshops.

As we face increasing political changes, spaces like the Bloomberg Green Festival become more important to keep the conversation around climate alive. The future of our planet relies on the voices of those who actively witness these changes being made.