Submitted by the East Kootenay Climate Hub

A standing-room-only audience gathered at Kimberley’s Centre 64 on Friday night (Dec. 6) to enjoy two short films presented by pro skier, filmmaker, and climate activist Chris Rubens. The captivating films chronicled Chris’ evolution from a globe-trotting professional skier to a climate advocate and Revelstoke-based organic farmer.

In his early career, Chris traveled the world chasing and filming epic freeriding experiences, often relying on helicopters and snowmobiles. However, his perspective shifted after producing Guilt Trip in 2016, a short climate action film shot in Greenland. Reflecting on that period, he admitted, “I felt like a fraud” when asked what he was personally doing to combat climate change.

This realization spurred him to “walk the walk” and embrace a lower impact lifestyle.

Following the film screenings, Chris was interviewed by local adventurer Bruce Hendricks.

During their discussion, Chris elaborated on his journey toward climate action. As highlighted in the second film of the evening, Farming Turns, he demonstrated how one can make impactful environmental lifestyle changes while still pursuing their passions.

Chris has significantly reduced his carbon footprint by eliminating the use of helicopters and snowmobiles, traveling more locally instead of flying abroad, and using bicycles, electric vehicles, and biodiesel for transportation.

He also adopted a plant-based diet. For Chris, these types of actions represent climate actions that everyone can participate in. He likened tackling climate change to climbing a mountain: “It looks daunting, but just likesummiting a peak, it can be achieved one small step at a time.”

Starting an organic farm in Revelstoke with his partner Jesse became a cornerstone of his climate journey. Jesse’s perspective further inspired him, indicating that farming is a form of gentle activism.

The 40-year-old shared a pivotal moment in his life when, at 25, he was rejected from an international ski team. Instead of feeling defeated, he decided to live authentically, aligning his career and personal values with his environmental commitments.

He reassured the audience that following the path of his values, including climate activism, didn’t harm his career but elevated it. “My life is so much better!” he declared.

The evening also featured short presentations by the East Kootenay Climate Hub, Kimberley Food Recovery, Kimberley Food Bank, and Selkirk Secondary student Maylyn Tarves, who spoke about their climate-friendly initiatives.

The event, organized by the East Kootenay Climate Hub, raised approximately $2,500. Proceeds will support Kimberley Food Recovery, the Kimberley Food Bank, and future climate activities by the Climate Hub.

The organizers expressed gratitude to Centre 64, the Kimberley Arts Council, MC Shona Rubens, Bruce Hendricks, and the many volunteers, including Selkirk Secondary students, who made the event a success.

Lead image: Chris Rubens left and Bruce Hendricks, right. Photos submitted

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