Nov. 19, 2024 (New York) — The Data Healing the Lungs of a City, a powerful film showcasing the work of Vital Strategies and its partners to improve air quality and champion clean air action in Jakarta, Indonesia received silver in the Sustainability, Environment & Climate category at the 2024 Anthem Awards. The poignant film, part of The Climate and Us series produced by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions, highlights how the climate crisis affects human health and highlights solutions from leading organizations.
“Prioritizing clean air initiatives is essential if we are to safeguard both human health and the health of our planet,” said Sumi Mehta, Vice President, Environmental, Climate & Urban Health, Vital Strategies. “The Climate and Us series highlights the profound global threats posed by rising air pollution and carbon emissions. Yet, we have the opportunity to change course. By improving air quality in cities, we can save lives, cut carbon emissions, and help the world achieve critical climate goals. We are honored by the Anthem Awards’ recognition of this film and grateful for the platform to raise awareness on such a crucial issue.”
The Data Healing the Lungs of a City follows the stories of three Jakarta residents living near some of the city’s largest sources of air pollution, including a busy urban port, factories, and heavily congested streets. Novi, a mother of two, and Cepi, a local resident, share their concerns about the dust and pollution that they and their families are exposed to daily. Zalfaa, a medical student passionate about understanding the health impacts of polluted air, volunteers to educate the community on the issue. Central to this effort is an air monitoring network set up across Jakarta, with one monitor located next to the school attended by Novi and Cepi’schildren.
“The Winners of this year’s Anthem Awards are truly inspiring and I am honored to help elevate their impact,” said Anthem Awards General Manager, Patricia McLoughlin. “At this moment, there is a lot of uncertainty in our world, but the tireless and extraordinary efforts of the Anthem Awards community provide hope that a better tomorrow is possible. Thank you to everyone doing this work and making an impact.”
The 4th Annual Anthem Awards was the most competitive yet, with more than 2,300 entries submitted from 34 countries. Anthem winners are selected by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences.
Visit Anthem Awards for a complete list of finalists.
Watch the short film here.
About Vital Strategies
Vital Strategies believes every person should be protected by an equitable and effective public health system. We partner with governments, communities and organizations around the world to reimagine public health so that health is supported in all the places we live, work and play. The result is millions of people living longer, healthier lives.
To find out more, please visit www.vitalstrategies.org or follow us on LinkedIn.