With the rise of the climate crisis, we’ve seen an almost-viral increase in initiatives, articles and community action – #climatecrisis.
The popularity and demand for real social change and action can be credited, in part, to a variety of celebrity activists who are using their platforms for good.
While there are definitely many unknown and undervalued community activists who are leading the way in the real world, celebrity backing can help attract new followers to a cause, and raise awareness outside the realms of education, politics and specialized organizations. Bringing water issues into the mainstream could very well be the way to see better everyday results.
Here are three popular Hollywood stars who are doing the most to drive the mission of climate action forward at the moment.
1. Jason Momoa
The issue of single use plastics has recently seen a surge in awareness, because of the pollutive effect they have on our waterways’ sustainability. It is estimated that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish, in terms of sheer weight – an incredibly alarming statistic that needs serious action to address.
Due to the tangible effect they have on our oceans, a lot is being done by activists and non-profits to educate the public on their damaging reputation. Jason Momoa is one such celebrity who has taken it upon himself to be Aquaman, both on and off-screen.
Momoa founded Mananalu, a product line of aluminum-packaged water cans with a mission to reduce the proliferating use of plastic water bottles. The more attention that is brought to the detriment that is single plastic water bottles, the better.
2. Kristen Bell
Kristen Bell has been making strides in water preservation for over a decade. She is known for being a Neutrogena Naturals Ambassador, partnering with The Nature Conservancy to raise awareness on mismanaging water use.
Many North Americans waste more water everyday than they realize, and Bell has brought awareness to the #WipeForWater social media campaign, which further inspires people to use water in responsible ways.
Bell has done a great job in educating the general public about implementing small changes in one’s lifestyle, in order to positively affect national water conservation efforts.
3. Matt Damon
Water.org is one of the most well-known organizations dedicated to finding sustainable ways to provide safe water access to all. Damon co-founded the organization with Gary White, both of whom merged their foundations H2O Africa Foundation and WaterPartners International respectively.
Water.org has remained a leader in trying to provide safe water and sanitation to millions of people internationally. As the impact of the water crisis increases, many regions face scarcity of water or are unable to have even basic, available drinking water.
The organization has remained a stalwart in ensuring accessible water is available to all. Damon’s high-profile image has only given credence to this mandate, and, together with White, has allowed water.org to flourish as a leader in charitable activity.
Our organization attempts to raise awareness about water sustainability through the art of film. To learn more, get involved, and buy tickets and passes to the upcoming festival, visit www.waterdocs.ca.