Freetown battles the heat crisis
Freetown, Sierra Leone faces significant challenges due to rising temperatures and a large impoverished population unable to afford cooling. In response, the city has appointed Eugenia Kargbo as Africa's first Chief Heat Officer to raise awareness and develop heat mitigation strategies. Collaborating with MEER (Mirrors for Earth's Energy Rebalancing), founded by Dr. Ye Tao, Freetown is pioneering the use of passive cooling materials to create mirrors that reflect sunlight and reduce local temperatures. A team of recent graduates from Freetown's university implemented this technology in Kroo Bay, lowering indoor temperatures by 5-7℃ (9-13°F) and significantly improving residents' quality of life. The documentary highlights the transformative impact on a local family and plans for broader implementation to help more residents.
Impact in Action
Learn about the impact of this film on communities.
In a world grappling with the escalating effects of climate change, "Cooling a City" shines a powerful light on Freetown, Sierra Leone's innovative approach to combating rising temperatures. The film reveals how the city has appointed Eugenia Kargbo as Africa's first Chief Heat Officer, a groundbreaking step that signifies a commitment to addressing the urgent needs of its most vulnerable populations.
Through a partnership with MEER (Mirrors for Earth's Energy Rebalancing) and the ingenuity of local university graduates, Freetown is pioneering the use of passive cooling materials that have successfully lowered indoor temperatures by 5-7℃ (9-13°F). This technological advancement not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also serves as a model for cities worldwide facing similar challenges. The documentary illustrates the transformative impact on a local family and emphasizes the potential for broader implementation to uplift more residents.
With rising temperatures affecting countless communities, the film urges viewers to support this initiative, showcasing the urgent need for action. By donating to this cause, individuals can contribute to a future where sustainable cooling solutions are accessible to all, creating healthier and more resilient communities.
Impact Goals
Freetown, Sierra Leone suffers from rising temperatures, with many residents unable to afford cooling. MEER (Mirrors for Earth's Energy Rebalancing) is pioneering the use of passive cooling materials that lower indoor temperatures by 13°F. MEER Founder, Dr. Tao, and local university graduates aim to expand, to improve more residents’ lives!
Dive Deeper
Get to know more about the problem.
Learn more about the issue
Explore relevant research & latest news
Go the extra mile!
Where to Watch
Oops, we could not find any watch sources for this media.
FAQ
See more FAQs here.
Continue Exploring
Discover more stories and insights that align with your interests.
Similar Impact Campaigns
Check out these media campaigns with similar social themes and impact tags

'L’arte dell’attivismo’ - Art of Activism
"L’arte dell’attivismo" explores the innovative approach of Paolo Fanciulli, a fisherman from the quiet port town of Talamone, Italy, who has pioneered "pescaturismo," blending tourism with sustainable fishing practices. The documentary highlights Fanciulli's efforts to protect the environment while supporting the local economy, showcasing the balance between profit and preservation. Through his story, the film emphasizes the broader impacts of industrial fishing practices and the importance of grassroots activism in preserving marine ecosystems.

ᏗᏂᏠᎯ ᎤᏪᏯ (Meet Me at the Creek)
Cherokee elders, like Rebecca Jim, believe that what happens to the water happens to us. Without it, we cannot move culture forward and we cannot exist here. ᏗᏂᏠᎯ ᎤᏪᏯ (Meet Me at the Creek) tells a story of interconnectedness and Cherokee values through the lifelong fight of Rebecca Jim, a Cherokee Nation citizen and Waterkeeper Warrior, as she leads the effort to restore Tar Creek located in Miami, Oklahoma. U.S. government officials have designated Tar Creek as “irreversibly damaged,” but Rebecca refuses to accept that.
Related Articles
Read our blog on the state of impact entertainment and Empact updates!
Empact: on turning empathy into action
Transforming emotional stories into actionable social change, Empact empowers filmmakers and brands to create impactful entertainment and meaningful audience engagement.
Why every film should have an impact campaign
Explaining the importance of impact campaigns for filmmakers to engage audiences, spark action, and enhance a film's reach and legacy.