Are you familiar with this project? In 2022, photographer Mary-Lou Mauricio launched a climate change awareness campaign called “Born in PPM”.
This campaign involves taking photos of people with a number written on their body, corresponding to the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere at the time of their birth. Since then, she has photographed ordinary people and public figures to raise awareness about climate change. All official photos are on the website
This project was quickly adopted by individuals and organizations worldwide. Similarly at Campus Contern: as a year-end greeting, we invited our tenants to replicate this eloquent campaign, in a ‘homemade’ fashion and with full awareness of its significance.
Why is the “Born in PPM” campaign an effective initiative for raising climate change awareness?
Climate change is real and accelerating
PPM is the acronym for “parts per million”, the unit of measurement used to assess CO2 concentration in the atmosphere .
The concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is a key measure of climate change. Indeed, CO2 is a greenhouse gas that absorbs heat from the sun and contributes to warming the planet.
Scientific data shows that the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere has increased significantly over recent decades. In 1850, it was 284 parts per million (ppm). In 2022, it reached 417 ppm, with occasional peaks at 420 ppm. These figures have not been observed for 3 to 4 million years, representing a 52% increase.
1850: 284 PPM
1900: 295 PPM (+11 points in 50 years)
1950: 311 PPM (+16 points in 50 years)
2000: 369 PPM (+58 points in 50 years)
Nov 2022: 417 PPM (+ 48 points in 22 years! meaning if we continue, +109 points by 2050!)
It’s impressive.
It’s real.
It’s measured by the IPCC, NASA, and other scientific data.
This increase in CO2 concentration is due to human activity, particularly the burning of fossil fuels.
The consequences of climate change are already visible worldwide. These include rising temperatures, extreme weather events, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels.
The “Born in PPM” campaign is effective in raising climate change awareness
First, it is simple and easy to understand. Everyone can understand the symbolism of a number.
Second, it is very visual. Photos of people with a number written on their bodies are very impactful and grab attention.
Third, it is personal. The numbers correspond to the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere at the time of their birth. This allows people to visualize and understand the magnitude of the change that has occurred during their lifetime.
The “Born in PPM” campaign encourages action
Indeed, the campaign encourages people to take steps to reduce their environmental impact. This can involve simple actions, such as reducing energy consumption, sorting waste, or eating less meat.
Let’s reiterate our CEO’s words here: “We must all act. At all levels. Talking is good, but we must also act!”
How to take action against climate change?
To contribute, feel free to participate in this campaign. You can take a photo of yourself with your number and share it on social media.
Here are some other concrete ways to participate in the fight against climate change:
- Reduce your energy consumption
- Sort your waste
- Eat less meat
- Choose local and seasonal products
- Favor public transport, cycling, or walking
- Support businesses and organizations working for environmental protection
Together, we can make a difference.
Link to the Born in PPM project: https://borninppm.com/