The Power of Animation to Inspire Climate Action: A Night to Remember at LCAW
At Storo, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling — especially when it’s wielded with purpose, beauty, and imagination. During this year’s London Climate Action Week, we had the joy of attending Animated for Impact: Show Films for Nature Connection and Action, a unique event curated by the brilliant minds at Run Collectives. It was more than just a screening — it was a heartfelt gathering of creatives, activists, filmmakers, and change-makers, all united by a shared belief: that stories can shape a better future.
The evening showcased not only a striking array of animated short films but also a space for meaningful exchange. Informative, emotional, and deeply inspiring, it reminded us why creativity must sit at the heart of climate communication.
One of the highlights was hearing from Sil and Jorik of Studio Birthplace — two remarkable storytellers using film to drive climate awareness and policy change. Their body of work is as daring as it is beautiful, with projects like the viral Wasteminster leaving a real imprint on public discourse and even legislation. We were especially inspired by how they select projects with radical integrity, only saying yes when it aligns with their mission and values.
Studio Birthplace is a masterclass in creative courage: using bold, boundary-pushing storytelling to provoke thought, stir emotion, and ignite action. And yet, what struck us just as much was their humility. Warm, grounded, and generous — they embody the kind of collaboration our world needs more of.
As champions of human-centred storytelling ourselves, we were reminded of the vital role imagination plays in shaping collective futures. Animation is still an underutilised tool in climate action — but when used with intention, its power is extraordinary. From Cannes Lions to indie gems, the evening was a celebration of what’s possible when purpose and artistry meet.
Here are a few reflections we took away with us:
✨ Stories can start revolutions
At their best, stories aren’t just beautiful — they’re catalytic. They challenge systems, inspire action and shift public consciousness. A well-told tale can do what data alone never could: touch the soul and stir it to move.
💡 Creativity must be in service of something greater
This work isn’t about ego or applause. It’s about using the craft — animation, film, games, events — as a force for good. When creative energy is aligned with purpose, it becomes unstoppable.
🛡 Integrity is non-negotiable
Turning down projects that don’t align with your values is tough, but vital. Saying “no” becomes a quiet revolution, a way to hold the line and protect what matters most. And strangely, those boundaries often become beacons.
🌱 Imagination is our most radical tool
From games that let you rewild the Earth to haunting zombie fashion films, playful forms carry serious power. When imagination meets intention, culture shifts. Hearts open. Change begins.
🌍 Activism wears many faces
You don’t need to hold a megaphone to make a difference. Activism might be a whispered idea in a boardroom, a choice to cycle, or a film that touches millions. We each contribute in our own way — and every act counts.
We left the evening energised, hopeful, and reminded of why we do what we do. Thank you to Run Collectives, Studio Birthplace, and everyone who brought this beautiful moment to life. The world needs more of these stories — and more spaces to share them.