Sept. 9, 2024
”Climate change is not something neglectable,” said the Spanish filmmaker, calling out the approach of the Spanish government.
Spain - At the Venice Film Festival, renowned
Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar made a passionate plea for urgent action on
climate change, criticizing the Spanish government’s current approach. Speaking
at a press conference for his latest film, The Room Next Door, Almodóvar
emphasized the dire need for greater attention to the environmental crisis,
stating, "Climate change is not something neglectable".
Almodóvar’s
remarks come at a time when public concern over climate change in Spain is at
an all-time high. According to a recent survey, 83% of Spanish citizens believe
they are more concerned about the climate emergency than their government. This
sentiment reflects a growing frustration with what many perceive as
insufficient governmental measures to combat the crisis.
During his
address, Almodóvar highlighted the interconnectedness of global issues, linking
climate change to immigration and social justice. He criticized the Spanish
government’s policies, particularly its handling of immigration, which he
described as “unjust” and “crazy.” Almodóvar argued that the government’s focus
should shift towards creating a more inclusive and sustainable world, rather
than enforcing restrictive measures.
The
filmmaker’s comments resonate with the broader European context, where there is
a strong push for more aggressive climate policies. At the COP26 summit,
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called for “greater ambition” in climate
goals and emphasized the need for economic resources to support the ecological
transition3. Despite these declarations, many Spaniards remain sceptical about
the government’s ability to meet its climate commitments.
Almodóvar’s
call to action is a reminder of the critical role that artists and public
figures can play in raising awareness and advocating for change. His passionate
plea underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for
collective action to protect the planet for future generations.