Ending Plastic Pollution in Hollywood and Beyond: EMA's Interview with Jackson Dollinger
Perhaps you've seen him as "Dio" from EMA Gold Seal recipient Pretty Freekin Scary or as a "Young Max Renolds" on Sydney to the Max, but in the environmental movement, Jackson Dollinger plays a different role. Since booking his first series in 2018, Jackson has been a strong proponent of both on and off-set environmental awareness and ocean conservation. We spoke to Jackson to learn more about his work.
Where do you see the intersection of digital media and climate action?
The intersection between digital media and climate action is clear. Digital media connects us all and is the perfect vehicle for communicating the importance of climate action. It is crucial for awareness.
How do you use social media and film to promote ocean conservation?
I have always had a deep love for the ocean. I grew up spending my summers on Catalina Island off the coast of California. I'm so grateful that I have a platform to share my passion and advocate for eliminating single-use plastics and ocean conservation. Single-use plastics are destroying our oceans, the planet, and the food chain. Today's youth need to understand the short- and long-term impact of the ongoing use of these plastics.
As a surfer and someone who grew up surrounded by the water, I have seen firsthand the impact of single-use plastics on our oceans. That is why I am passionate about this cause. I have served as Ocean Ambassador for the Footprint Foundation and worked with Heal the Bay, the Lonely Whale Foundation, and the Surfrider Foundation. In addition, I share resources across my social media platforms and educate my youthful audience on the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
What advice do you have for young people interested in creative activism but need help knowing where to start?
My advice for fellow young people who are interested in creative activism is to find what they're passionate about, learn about the issues, connect with like-minded people, use their creativity, start small, and embrace social media. Learn from successful activists, stay resilient, collaborate with others, and be open to learning and evolving. Every small action matters in making a positive impact.
What's a fact you find shocking about our ocean, and what are some ways we can all take action?
It is utterly shocking that in the past ten years, we've made more plastic than in the last century, and by 2050, the fish population will be outnumbered by our discarded plastic. Individuals can reduce their plastic footprint by choosing reusable or compostable products to combat this. Further, participating in beach cleanup events and advocating for legislation regulating plastic production and waste management are crucial steps. Additionally, raising awareness about the impact of plastic pollution, supporting conservation organizations, and making informed, sustainable consumer choices contribute to addressing this urgent issue.
What are your climate goals for the rest of 2024?
One of my climate goals is to partner with the Surfrider Foundation to help promote The Global Plastics Treaty, in which 175 nations will agree to develop a legally binding agreement on plastic pollution by the end of 2024, prompting a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production, use, and disposal. I would also love to reduce my carbon footprint further by significantly limiting my meat and dairy intake and replacing these food groups with plant-based alternatives.
We admire Jackson's commitment to ending plastic pollution. Our EMA Green Seal for Sustainable Production encourages TV and movie sets to ditch single-use plastics for better alternatives.
Orlee Bracha is a teen climate activist and digital content creator. Her specialty is in uplifting the voices of youth and marginalized people online to advocate for social justice.
This interview was made possible by the EMA Creator Fund.