Kendal Mountain Festival 2021 is focused on the climate
As COP26 reaches its conclusion, the eyes of the world are on global leaders as we seek transformational action in response to the existential threat of the climate emergency.
For many of us, this very threat has changed how we consider our relationship with the natural world. When we step outside, the landscape around us, with all of its various beauty, feels somewhat finite.
All of this and more will be explored at this year’s Kendal Mountain Festival. The 2021 edition will bring together international athletes, filmmakers, conservationists and authors to share their thoughts and experiences as part of the UK’s largest annual gathering of the outdoor community.
“Understanding our impact on the mountains has always been a part of the Festival, but over the years our audiences have demanded more from us,” said Kendal Mountain Festival Director Steve Scott.
“They expect us to talk about climate change, about closed loop manufacturing and what our brand partners are doing. We have moved from a passive role to being more proactive by challenging what our responsibilities are as active users of the outdoors.”
Now in its 41st year, Kendal Mountain Festival – which takes place in the eponymous Lake District town – will run from November 18 – 21. Events include film screenings, panel discussions and presentations to explore the impact of human life on the natural world, and the steps we as a population can take to reduce it.
The festival will also feature a series of esteemed guest speakers – including trail-running superstar Kilian Jornet, who will host his new ‘Athlete Climate Academy’.
“In the past years I’ve seen how extreme weather patterns are changing, routes that only a few years ago were possible to climb in summer are now spring or winter routes,” says Jornet.
“I’ve seen how ecosystems are now disappearing or going higher in altitude to survive, how pollution is on top of Everest or in the depth of the ocean. And it’s on us, we’re responsible but also we are the ones who can fix it, together, with knowledge and will of action.”
For tickets and further information, visit the Kendal Mountain Festival website.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
The femme bikepacking group making meaningful adventures
Sisters in the Wild — With expeditions across Wales, Slovenia, Mongolia, Vietnam and beyond, the group are providing space for FLINTA cyclists to ride and connect with nature.
The lasting community legacy of a legendary Californian boxing gym
Moretón — Since opening in the ’80s, the Coachella Valley Boxing Club has trained multiple world champions, while providing a vital hub for local youth. In his new photobook, Darren Vargas documents its tight-knit, Chicano-led community, while also weaving a deeply personal story.
In Portugal, a DIY longboarding festival is keeping surfing’s radical roots alive
Gliding Barnacles — Set in Figueira da Foz, the five day get together was born out of the local scene’s desire to protect the local environment and their coastal breaks. Ellie Howard traces its growth and all round celebration of creativity.
Guts, glory and goat tossing at the World Nomad Games
All eyes on Bishkek — From kok boru to eagle hunting, Kyrgyzstan’s global showcase spotlights ancient sports and celebrates local traditional culture, while also stiffening the regime’s ambitions, reports Antoine Goullin.
Dan Lacey: “BMX is forever evolving”
Overground — Steph Pomphrey caught up with the two-wheel legend after his latest meet in east London, chatting about fatherhood, music and action sports within the outdoor industry.
The battle for the soul of lockpicking
Under locksport and key — In recent years, breaking locks for fun has grown from a niche hobby into an activity followed by millions of people. As it has matured, so have tensions over who sets the rules.
