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In the wake of an apathetic administration, green messaging is more important than ever.
Every year the Environmental Media Association brings together some of the most recognizable names across the media and entertainment industries. The nonprofit aims to wield the exposure of these people to benefit the environment and raise awareness for conservational causes. Its keynote events, the EMA Awards, EMA Honors Benefit, and EMA IMPACT Summit showcase the association's efforts and the efforts those involved.
Among those connected to the organization is former *NSYNC member Lance Bass who, after a chance encounter with EMA President Debbie Levin, joined up and now serves as a co-chair. "I think it's the little things that really add up," said Bass, who first remembers learning about recycling as a child growing up in the 80s. Now, as a California resident with looming environmental concerns like drought and wildfires, Bass realizes it's small, conscious changes to one's routine that work best. "It saves so much," he said, "and if we all did it so much conservation would be happening."
Related | Lance Bass Didn't Come Out Earlier Because He Thought *NSYNC Would Be Over
Though the EMA's message and mission is evergreen, Bass admits that the Trump administration has complicated things. "I think everyone is really walking on eggshells right now, especially in the environmental area," he said. "It's very scary to know that this administration is just rolling back really important environmental protections. It just shows how selfish people can be."
Aside from helping to organize the EMA's annual events, Bass has also used their "Green My School" program to reach out to and help educate school-age children about the importance of being environmentally conscious. "Growing up in Clinton [Mississippi], where my school is, we made fun of people that were interested in the environment. We made fun of people that wanted to join the farmer's club because it wasn't the cool thing to do," said Bass. Now, Bass handles his old school and a handful of schools in LA as part of the program. "I feel like that consciousness has really changed and kids are more aware of what's needed because they're not jaded yet. They're not greedy," he said. "That's why these kids have the best ideas."
The EMA's IMPACT Summit took place today and the EMA Awards will be held tomorrow in Beverly Hills, hosted by Amber Valletta. Ticketing information can be found here.
