What is the Paddling the Margins Project?

Paddling the Margins is a film making project and Kayak expedition to investigate the experiences of marginal groups, living at the edge of North American society and geography, under the threat of climate change and habitat destruction.

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This journey and film will shed light on how the various groups that live and work on this coast have learnt to coexist with their natural environment and how the challenging trade-offs of economic development, environmental stewardship and the the protection of culture and heritage are being managed.

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The approach of this project will be to question and reflect on the complexities of the challenges the region faces, giving a plaform to the communities and people of this coastline to speak about their worries, hopes and challenges. Paddling the Margins aims to add nuance and reflection to the sustainability conversation, elevating local voices and teasing out useful lesson's for a global audience. 

Interest in sustainable living and alternative relationships with nature has increased as anxiety over climate change and habitat destruction has grown. Young people have repeatedly vocalised, through school strikes, marches and at that ballot box, that the climate and our relationship with nature are their principal concerns, both politically and economically.

By meeting and talking with people who have coexisted with a much harsher environment than our own and who often face the duel challenges of climate change and economic isolation, Paddling the Margins will contribute a forward looking narrative on sustainability.

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Follow the Paddling the Margins project here to keep up with the expedition as it progresses from planning to paddling!