Landmark climate change film will issue community call to action in North Devon

A sobering film designed to bring the climate crisis to communities across the UK and inspire them to do their bit is being shown at free screenings across North Devon this April.

The People’s Emergency Briefing is a compelling 45-minute documentary based on the National Emergency Briefing (NEB) event held at Westminster in November, presented to more than 1,200 MPs, peers and leaders from business, culture, faith, sport and the media.

It underscored the risks facing the country due to climate and nature breakdown that will affect food security, health, national security, infrastructure and the economy, alongside practical evidence to show how risks can still be reduced.

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The launch of the documentary in North Devon is being organised by Earth Action North Devon (EAND) and the North Devon and Torridge Climate Forum, working with local community groups.

The debut screening is at St Mary’s Church in Bideford on Wednesday, April 15 at 7.30pm.

The People’s Emergency Briefing will also be shown on Saturday, April 18 at the next North Devon and Torridge Climate Forum held in room 3b on the top floor of Barnstaple Library at 10.30am.

The Isaac Hall at Braunton Academy will also show the film on Wednesday, April 22 at 7pm.

Above: Broadcaster Chris Packham addresses the gathered politicians and sector leaders at the National Emergency Briefing event, upon which the People’s Emergency Briefing film is based.

Each screening will be followed by a short conversation to raise community awareness and give people an idea of things they can do to help and how to plan for the future.

Organisers say the film is not intended to alarm people but it is hoped it will give them more information and inspire them join forces with others and take action.

More venues and dates are expected to be announced shortly – all screenings are free but people are asked to book their places online at bit.ly/NEB-NDevon. Future dates will be added to the page.

Organisers are keen to celebrate the breadth of positive work already taking place across North Devon, from wildlife restoration and sustainable farming to renewable energy and community growing projects.  

Claire Moodie, CEO of EAND said: “We hope everyone who attends leaves not just better informed, but connected to the people and projects already making a difference in our communities.

“Whatever your levels of concern, interests or skills, there is a place for you in this. We really do need everyone and we don't have time to waste.”

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George Curry, from the North Devon & Torridge Climate Forum added: “At a time when the effects of the escalating climate and biodiversity crises are becoming increasingly extreme, it seems that this biggest threat to our national security is being largely ignored by the media.

“The news is being dominated by wars, devastation and destruction, the result of actions by a small group of unhinged world leaders, that is in stark contrast to what is going on across many communities. There are many reasons to be hopeful, but we need to hold the burden together and realise the opportunities and actions we need to take as a matter of urgency.”

Book your place or find out more at https://www.earthactionnorthdevon.org/blog/national-emergency-briefing-screenings