Closing the gap between how humans and the natural world coexist is a conservation tactic. Environmental activist Felipe Rodríguez Vásquez is using it to inspire change. Hailing from Colombia, he founded the BlackMoon Project to harness the power of documentary filmmaking and show how locals are safeguarding ecosystems. “I decided to dedicate my life to using filmmaking as a way to communicate messages about conservation, to give a voice for the communities in different areas,” he says.
As a child, Vásquez developed an appreciation for nature as he spent much of his time outdoors. Having worked in social and political fields for almost three years, he then shifted his lens to capturing environmental preservation. “Our work is supporting many conservation organisations to guide successful strategies,” Vásquez says. In Tanzania, poaching is a major thorn in wildlife ecosystems. Vásquez has documented efforts by Honeyguide, a community conservation organisation that initiated a dog unit to bolster anti-poaching endeavours in national parks. Focusing on people’s relationship with their environment, he also filmed the Women’s Beekeeping Initiative where Maasai women empower themselves and protect their land by harvesting honey.
“Through the BlackMoon Project we will continue to document positive actions for the environment around the world,” he says. Vásquez hopes to rally support for communities creating a sustainable ecosystem where people, animals and their homes can thrive. “The conservation of natural resources is everyone’s responsibility,” Vásquez says.
Footage by Felipe Rodríguez Vásquez was used in the creation of this film.
