The climate bill and MEP
A Turning Point In Climate Action: The Role Of MEP In Shaping History
NO ACTION, NO FUTURE!
In 2019, the US Capitol became the epicenter of a powerful Climate Strike, a collaboration between the Mother Earth Project (MEP) and several leading climate activist organizations. MEP brought an awe-inspiring visual statement to the event: 80 parachutes representing artwork from dozens of countries, alongside its massive 100-foot-diameter parachute emblazoned with the message “NO ACTION NO FUTURE.”
This strike was one of hundreds happening simultaneously across the globe, drawing millions to the streets in a united demand for stronger climate laws and a more sustainable future. The protests carried a profound duality—an undeniable hope for change tempered by the frustratingly slow pace of global progress, as annual COP conferences failed to deliver the decisive actions needed to avert climate catastrophe.
SIGNED INTO LAW!
Then, in 2022, a moment of unprecedented progress arrived. President Joe Biden signed into law the largest climate bill in history, committing over $360 billion to reduce US greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. This legislation not only reaffirmed the United States' commitment to the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement but also sent a resounding message to the world that meaningful climate action was possible.
Your Action, Your Impact: A Historic Victory for Change!
The signing of this historic bill was a defining moment for MEP. Its five co-founders stood at the White House as President Biden acknowledged the critical role of grassroots movements, stating that the Climate Bill was a direct result of voices from the streets—voices like those of the Climate Strikers—and their active participation in shaping the legislation. For MEP, this was a moment of profound recognition, validating years of relentless effort to inspire change through art and advocacy. It was a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and persistence in driving real, lasting impact for the planet.
This milestone underscores a powerful truth: creativity unites, and Action transforms, driving the change our planet needs.
Let’s keep going. The fight for a sustainable future isn’t over. We need visitors like you—those who understand that every action counts. Whether you join a local movement, contribute your creativity, or take a single step toward sustainability, you’re part of the solution. Together, we can continue to build momentum and create a world where hope becomes action and action becomes transformation.
—Barton Rubenstein, MEP Co-founder
A Global Stage for Climate Action
The Pope's Historic Message at World Youth Day
In January 2019, the world witnessed a transformative moment during Pope Francis's visit to Panama for World Youth Day. Over the course of the week, 500,000 youth pilgrims from across the globe gathered in Panama City, united by faith and a shared responsibility for the planet. The Mother Earth Project played a pivotal role in this historic event, bringing climate action to the forefront through powerful artistic expressions.
Across Panama, 41 parachutes were created by over 20 parish communities, each carrying a message of hope, awareness, and a call for sustainability. These parachutes were displayed throughout the city during the Pope’s week-long visit, with six stations inviting visitors from around the world to decorate additional parachutes.
The week culminated in a breathtaking display during the final mass at a large stadium, attended by co-founders Barton and Shereen Rubenstein. Thirty parachutes adorned the inside of the stadium, creating a radiant halo around the Pope, while two parachutes were placed prominently on either side of his chair.
In a defining moment, the Pope took one of the parachutes back to the Vatican. Shortly afterward, he delivered a profound message to his 1 billion followers, declaring that climate change is real and urging all people to focus on living more sustainably. This announcement, sparked by the creativity and commitment of communities in Panama, resonated globally, emphasizing the power of art and faith to inspire action and drive meaningful change for the future of our planet.
This extraordinary event underscores a powerful truth: art is not merely a form of expression—it is a catalyst for transformation. It unites people, transcends boundaries, and compels leaders and communities to confront the urgent realities of our time. Through creativity, we inspire change, ignite action, and illuminate a path toward a sustainable future.
Voices from the Field
"Here in Zimbabwe, we have used the Parachutes and Murals strategy to communicate climate and environmental justice issues, and it has been impactful. Communities are better informed by the messages, and it keeps the conversations going as people interface with the murals daily."
– Jussa, Zimbabwe
"The power of pictorial communication. Our school has established a woodlot, and each child was tasked to plant a fruit tree in their homes during the first-term holiday—all because of our mural. Thank you, Barton and the MEP team."
– Ann Grace, Uganda
"The MEP platforms have propelled our passion to demand better climate laws in Tanzania. We will fly our parachutes on June 5th during World Environment Day. We can’t wait! #Parachutes/Murals forever."
– Prisca, Tanzania
Inspiring Collaboration
"The speed with which this project continues to grow and attract new communities speaks to its impact and popularity. This program provides tools for positive communication about the SDGs and inspires groups to work together creatively."
– Mary Barton, Former World Bank Director of Environment and Climate Change
"Parachutes leapfrog over blame and guilt and allow people to take action. This project has solidified our African Group!"
– Cathy Orlando, Citizens’ Climate Lobby International Outreach Manager
"Thank you for giving vulnerable communities a voice to contribute to caring for Mother Earth. It is an honor to be part of this journey."
– Tosin Kolawole, Nigeria
Student Voices
"Something that intrigued me is how MEP empowers schools to voice their environmental concerns. It’s amazing to see smaller voices having a larger impact."
– Churchill High School student, Maryland
"MEP collaboration with schools is about enabling the future. It’s about accessing the potential of the next generation."
– Dana Harrison, Head of Newtown Friends School, Pennsylvania
"Thank you for giving vulnerable communities a voice to contribute to caring for Mother Earth. It is an honor to be part of this journey."
– Tosin Kolawole, Nigeria
From Partners and Supporters
"Mother Earth is my new favorite sculpture!"
– Instagram follower
"Your people-powered project for Mother Earth is so inspiring!"
– Dylan, Founder of VirtueBrush.com
"It is such a dark time for the planet. Your work is an inspiration for us all."
– MEP supporter
Creativity Unites. Action
Transforms.
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