The recent premiere of the documentary “Forested Future” at the Barcelona International Architecture Film Festival (BARQ) has sparked deep interest and reflection on our relationship with nature. Directed by Petr Krejčí and produced by the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), this documentary takes us to the forest communities in the Appalachian region of the Eastern United States, providing an intimate and enlightening look at the coexistence between humans and forests.
Drawing inspiration from the book “A Trillion Trees” by environmental journalist Fred Pearce, “Forested Future” weaves a narrative that intertwines the lives of foresters, farmers, architects, designers, craftsmen, and ecologists. These natural world contributors emphasize the critical need for adopting forest management practices that respect natural cycles, highlighting not only the aesthetic appeal of lush forests but also the urgent need to change our interaction with natural resources.
The documentary points out that urbanization has contributed to people’s detachment from the land that sustains them and highlights the importance of restoring this essential connection in times of climate change. Krejčí believes that film has a unique power to tell stories that evoke a sense of collective environmental responsibility, urging a transformation that begins in our consciousness and shared actions.
In their testimonies, landowner Nancy Baker emphasizes the slow growth of forests compared with the fast pace of human time perception. Meanwhile, David Venables from AHEC praises the inherent beauty of wood and its use through the ages. Renowned British architect and film participant Alison Brooks states that her work with American hardwoods symbolizes a shift towards architecture that is both sustainable and cutting-edge.
“Forested Future” aims to inspire audiences to consider enduring solutions, recognizing that reforestation and community collaboration could be fundamental pillars in mending our broken relationship with the natural environment. With a call to regenerative practices, the documentary suggests that these should not only meet our current material needs but also alleviate critical environmental challenges humanity faces today.