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Roy Kimhi is a filmmaker, impact producer, XR creator, and underwater specialist who collaborates with environmentalists, scientists, artists, and communities to bring social and environmental stories to the screen.

Learn More about ECHOES OF THE JORDAN

The Power of Virtual Reality Conquering Your "Jaws" fears

Back in 1975, Steven Spielberg caught the world unprepared for one of the most famous horror movies ever created.

He made it so successfully, that not only it earned $470 million worldwide, he made us believe the sharks are sea-monsters, man-eaters, and so this myth began.

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ECHOES OF THE JORDAN began in 2019, informed by years of researching and field observation, and guided by a central question: How can we tell a river’s story not only about it, but from its point of view?

In a region where water is scarce, sacred, and increasingly threatened by climate change, we saw the need for something more than a documentary. We wanted to tell the story from within the river’s perspective—inviting participants to experience the journey in first person, rather than observing it from the outside.

Through virtual reality, we invite people to embody a single water drop from the river, moving with its current through evaporation, erosion, and memory—to feel what it means to go through its cycles.

In one of the world’s climate hot spots, a river cannot revive without water for nature. But it can be given a voice.

I’m pleased to share that this week, ECHOES OF THE JORDAN was recognized with two awards—Bangkok Movie Awards and Better Earth International Film Festival. Thank you to the juries and teams for supporting a reflective story shaped by water, place, and perspective.

With @barak_brinker
Images by @ekaterinabourindine and @oneatmosphereproductions

#EchoesOfTheJordan #NARU #JordanReWILD #ImmersiveDocumentary #XR4Impact #Water #ClimateStory #VR #XR #Immersive #BangkokMovieAwards #BetterEarthFilmFestival #MiddleEast #JordanRiver #ClimateCrisis #Rewilding #OneAtmosphere

Earlier this year, we began capturing 360° imagery of the Red Sea’s coral reefs for a new interactive VR project. After two decades filming underwater, I’ve learned that protecting our fragile seas must start with appreciation and connection.

For years now, we’ve been living through what scientists call the “extinction of experience”—not just the loss of species, but the slow erosion of our everyday relationship with the living world, including the oceans.

As Professor Miles Richardson (@findingnature_ ) puts it:

“Nature connectedness is not just about what we do, but how we feel, think and value our place in the living world.”

His book Reconnection has strengthened my belief in the potential of virtual reality to reconnect us with nature.

I believe immersive technology can expand access to places and times in ways that stir awe, humility, and urgency. This might be the next phase of environmental media: not just documenting change, but helping people feel closer to nature and to evoke love and care - emotions that can inspire a more harmonious relationship with our planet.

With @oneatmosphereproductions @barak_brinker @yonatanmanevich

#UnderwaterCinematography #360VR #ReefsIn360 #OneAtmosphere #NatureReconnection #ExtinctionOfExperience #ImmersiveNature #MilesRichardson #Rewilding #VirtualRealityForGood #EnvironmentalStorytelling #ImmersiveMedia #PEB #NatureConnectedness

⁨ ⁨ ⁨ ⁨ ⁨ ⁨ בכורת הסרט האימרסיבי “פירוא” תיערך בשבוע הבא בירושלים

אנחנו שמחים לשתף שהבכורה של הסרט האימרסיבי החדש שלנו, “פירוא” (2025), תתקיים בשבוע הבא במסגרת פסטיבל האנימציה הבינלאומי של ירושלים.

מה זה ״פירוא״?
בעברית, פֵּרוּא משמעו שיקום והקמה מחודשת של בתי גידול טבעיים (Rewilding). שם הסרט שואב השראה מהרעיון של שיקום מערכות אקולוגיות, ומציג חוויה קולנועית אינטראקטיבית שמעלה מחדש זיכרון אקולוגי עמוק.

תקציר “פירוא” היא חוויה אינטראקטיבית במציאות מדומה (VR), העוקבת אחר סיפורו של הירדן — נהר הניצב בקו החזית של משבר האקלים ושל הסכסוך במזרח התיכון. המשתתפים מתחילים את מסעם מתחת לאדמה, ופוגשים במי הנהר החושפים זיכרון בן עשרים מיליון שנה — מהיווצרותו של השבר הסורי־אפריקאי ועד ימינו. המים מובילים אותם אל נקודת מפגש של בעלי־חיים מאפריקה, מאירופה ומאסיה, שחיו לאורך הירדן במשך אלפי שנים. במירוץ אל ההווה, ניצבים המשתתפים בפני בחירה שעשויה לשנות את עתיד הנהר לתמיד.

מתי ואיפה? 
תאריכים: 4–8 בנובמבר 2025 
מיקום: מרחב מציאות מדומה (VR), מדיטק — בסמוך לאולם 4, סינמטק ירושלים

שעות פתיחה:
יום רביעי, בין 19-21
יום חמישי, 17-19
יום שישי, 12-14
יום שבת, 12-14

הכניסה חופשית. מספר המקומות מוגבל בכל סבב הקרנה.

‪‪@barak_brinker‬‬ Jonathan Oberkli‪@yonatanmanevich‪@yanaabutalebofficial‪@tamarzandberg‪@keren_makor‪@institutfrancais_israel‪@amitgoren5‪@eveline.klugerkadish‪@gllmngt‪@shlooyos‪@aninationfestival‬s‪@aninationfestival‬l‬s @aninationfestival
‏
We are excited to announce the premiere of our new immersive documentary, “Echoes of the Jordan”, which will take place next week as part of the Jerusalem International Animation Festival.

‏When and Where?
‏ Dates: November 4–8, 2025
‏ Location: Virtual Reality Space (VR), Meditech — near Hall 4, Jerusalem Cinematheque
‏
‏Opening Hours: 
Wednesday, 19:00–21:00
Thursday, 17:00–19:00
Friday, 12:00–14:00
Saturday, 12:00–14:00

‏#EchoesOfTheJordan #Premiere⁩⁩⁩

Last week, as part of Camp 4Science, I had the privilege of facilitating an impact filmmaking workshop — supporting five outstanding science documentary projects currently in development.
We explored iconic case studies and mapped out practical strategies for designing impact campaigns that go beyond the screen. The discussions were insightful, the creative energy was tangible, and the potential of these projects to shape real-world change was truly inspiring.

Thank you to @ivana.for , @doma_vona , and the entire Camp 4Science team for the invitation. And a special acknowledgment to the teams at @afo_olomouc and @praguesciencefilmfest for continuing to connect art, science, and social impact in powerful ways.

Here’s to more purposeful storytelling, and to science as a catalyst for social and environmental impact.

📸: @miss_terezka @ondrakazik

@m.a.koperska | @marthamis | Karol Jalochowski | Eliška Cílková | Jindřich Andrš | @manuelinacker | @anka.marr | Barbora Namerova | Martina Netíková
#ImpactFilmmaking #ScienceCommunication #DocumentaryFilm #ScienceDocumentary #Camp4Science #ArtMeetsScience #StorytellingForChange #FilmForImpact #BeyondTheScreen

For the past six months, we have been developing a new underwater VR production, testing rigs, building interactive mechanics, and capturing the 3D underwater scenery of the Red Sea reefs.

We’re excited to share more news soon about our interactive VR experience, which brings to life a story of partnership and interdependence centered on a very special fish.

Stay tuned and follow @oneatmosphereproductions for updates over the next few weeks to learn more.

#UnderwaterVR #XR #Impact #VR #ImmersiveMedia #InteractiveVR #RedSea #CoralReefs #Immersive #OneAtmosphere

Why Tell Stories in VR?

Many of us are losing our connection with nature every day. Cities are growing, screens take most of our attention, and scientists even call this the “extinction of experience” — the decline in direct contact with the natural world. When people don’t spend time in nature, they often don’t feel as connected to it — and that makes it harder to care for and protect it.

Virtual reality (VR) can help bridge this gap. It can’t replace real time spent in nature, yet recent research shows it can still make a difference. How?

VR can make climate change feel closer and more personal, reducing the psychological distance that often keeps people from acting. It can also let us step into other perspectives — even embodying animals or trees — which has been shown to increase empathy and care for ecosystems in ways traditional media cannot.

At the same time, immersive experiences can spark awe and curiosity — emotions linked to pro-environmental behavior. They can also bring nature into classrooms, cities, and places where access is limited, helping more people share in its benefits. And for younger, digital-native generations, VR can sustain long-term engagement with environmental issues, offering a pathway into stewardship that feels both relevant and inspiring.

This field is still developing, but it shows real promise for helping people feel closer to nature, even when access is limited. The question now is how we can use immersive stories in thoughtful and meaningful ways — not to replace real experiences outdoors, but to complement them and spark new forms of connection.

#VirtualReality #XR #ImmersiveExperience #ImpactFilms #NatureConnection #ClimateAction #Sustainability #StorytellingForChange #FutureOfLearning #ImmersiveArt #ImpactMedia #WaterRemembers

With @oneatmosphereproductions and @barak_brinker

We are excited to announce that our new immersive documentary, “ECHOES OF THE JORDAN,” has officially been released!

As @oneatmosphereproductions continues to work on future immersive episodes, this milestone is a perfect moment to thank the partners, collaborators, and supporters who joined us on this ongoing journey and helped us develop an interactive VR documentary designed for an interactive, multi-sensory experience. We couldn’t have done it without you.

A big thank you to the @keren_makor , @amitgoren5 @eveline.klugerkadish ,Vicky Cohen, @niru_arashi and their supports for their leadership and commitment to the exciting and innovative XR field, as well as to @gllmngt @institutfrancais_israel @tcellen and Michele Ziegler and the @newimages.festival for believing in the project from its early days.

WRITTEN BY: @roykimhi , Yana Abu Taleb
PRODUCED BY: One Atmosphere
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGISTS: Yonatan Oberklied, @yonatanmanevich
VR CINEMATOGRAPHER: @barak_brinker
NARRATORS: @tamarzandberg , Yana Abu Taleb
MUSIC: Cody Martin
SCIENTIFIC CONSULTING: Andrés Casas, Prof. Boaz Hameiri, @franciyahoo , Prof. Meytal Horkin Nasie
DIRECTOR, IMPACT PRODUCER: Roy Kimhi

Special thanks to our incredible team as well as to @copro___ , @pnina_halfon_lang , @nillyka , @wild_evi , @ekaterinabourindine , @lil_joku , @jumana_saad , Prof. Gonen Sharon, Prof. Dafna Langot, Nimrod Shanit, @noamshalev1 , @dadasaga , @adamweingrod , Natalie Hagla, Boaz Feldman, Uri Kareev, and @sternlichtjennifer .

To arrange a private VR screening, get a custom quote, and receive updates on future public screenings, please request details here →https://www.oneatmospherestudio.com/eotj

#EchoesOfTheJordan #TheClimateDiplomat #ImmersiveDocumentary #ImmersiveStorytelling #InteractiveVR #VR #XR #JordanRiver #MiddleEast #ClimateChange #Rewilding #NaturalHistory #ClimateStorytelling #JordanReWILD #OneAtmosphere #WatersMemory #WaterRemembers

🌍 “ECHOES OF THE JORDAN” Pilot Locked—Immersive VR Screenings Open Soon 🌍

The pilot episode for THE CLIMATE DIPLOMAT, @oneatmosphereproductions immersive documentary series that chronicles the life and decline of one of the world’s most sacred rivers, is finally ready—and screenings will begin soon.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in a 360° prehistoric Jordan River, where spatial sound, gentle haptics, and volumetric imagery let you embody the water itself.

Want to host a VR screening or be notified when public VR activations and screenings open?

Stay updated or request details and early-viewer access here → https://forms.gle/sjbFZVDxjBLokuxZ7

To learn more, visit www.1atmospherex.com/eotj

@keren_makor @amitgoren5 @eveline.klugerkadish Vicky Cohen @niru_arashi , The French Institute, @gllmngt , @yanaabutalebofficial , @tamarzandberg , Yonatan Oberklied, @barak_brinker , @yonatanmanevich , Andres Casas , prof. Boaz Hameiri, @franciyahoo Dr. Meytal Hornik Nasie, @wild_evi @tcellen and Michele Ziegler and the @newimages.festival

#EchoesOfTheJordan #TheClimateDiplomat #ImmersiveDocumentary #ImmersiveStorytelling #InteractiveVR #VR #XR #JordanRiver #MiddleEast #ClimateChange #Rewilding #NaturalHistory #ClimateStorytelling #JordanReWILD #OneAtmosphere #WatersMemory #WaterRemembers

ECHOES OF THE JORDAN

What does a vanished world sound like?

As our team first scouted Ubeidiya—an Early Pleistocene site in the Jordan Valley, dated to about 1.5 million years ago, and second only to Dmanisi in age outside Africa—we uncovered stone layers bearing elephant bones, mammoth tusks, rhinoceros teeth, saber-toothed cat fangs, and deer antlers. These remains point to a vanished ecosystem unlike any today—a meeting point of African savannas and European woodlands, where elephants and mammoths shared the landscape with rhinos, deer, and formidable predators.

In our upcoming immersive experience, we’ve placed special attention on crafting rich, evocative soundscapes.
Here’s a sneak peek from the film—hit 🔊, share the Reel, and tag someone who’d enjoy it.

Want to know more? Follow @oneatmosphereproductions for early access to the reel, behind-the-scenes of the VR pilot, and updates on future screenings.

#EchoesOfTheJordan #SoundOfNature #TheClimateDiplomat #ImmersiveDocumentary #XR #ImpactFilmmaking #XR #VRforImpact #Bioacoustics #Soundscapes #TimeMachine #JordanRiver #Pleistocene #ClimateStorytelling #JordanReWILD

The journey of this immersive film began in 2019. After several years abroad I came back to Israel determined to tackle climate change in the Middle East—yet unsure where to start. Kilometres of dusty back-roads finally pointed to one truth: the story had to be about water.

Following the Jordan River—its flow diminished by changing climates, overuse, and regional conflict—I began to see it not just as a local tragedy, but as a mirror of a planetary crisis.

It raised a key question: could this river, once mighty and now scarcely a whisper, speak its own fate—and, in doing so, reveal something about ours?

For the next four years I kept returning: hiking, scouting, reading, documenting. Each visit revealed the widening gap between the river’s deep ecological memory and its fragile present. That sight called for a new kind of storytelling—one that places you inside the river’s past so you can feel how its future might flow.

In September 2024 we launched production; today the pilot episode of THE CLIMATE DIPLOMAT is about to be released, with our first teaser dropping in the coming weeks.

Come along for the ride—follow @oneatmosphereproductions for early access to VR screenings, behind-the-scenes peeks, and ongoing updates.

#EchoesOfTheJordan #TheClimateDiplomat #ImmersiveDocumentary #VR #JordanRiver #ClimateStorytelling #JordanReWILD #WaterScarcity #OneAtmosphere

In the heart of Jerusalem, the Gazelle Valley is a rare urban nature park where endangered Mountain Gazelles still roam free.

Once just an open space eyed by developers, it became a symbol of civic action — after years of grassroots pressure, the city protected it as Israel’s first urban wildlife sanctuary. Today, it supports a reintroduction program for gazelles, once nearly lost to this land.

#GazelleValley #MountainGazelle #UrbanWildlife #Jerusalem #ClimateCrisis #Rewilding #OneAtmosphereProductions #FrontlinesOfNature

Back in 2007, I took my first dives in the Red Sea—an experience that sparked a lasting connection to the ocean and eventually led to my debut VR film, an underwater journey to meet the great white sharks in Mexico.

Now, I’m returning to where it all began. Together with the team at @oneatmosphereproductions and an exciting new client and partner—soon to be revealed—we’re working on a new underwater VR production: an opportunity to revisit the Red Sea and experience its vibrant marine world firsthand. 🪸

#UnderwaterVR #RedSea #StayTuned #OneAtmosphereProductions #ImpactMedia #ImmersiveStorytelling #OceanConservation #VRDocumentary

Impact filmmaking is rapidly evolving as more creatives and industry professionals recognize the power of storytelling to shape a more sustainable world—socially, environmentally, and economically.

Over the past months, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring and consulting for the CoPro Impact Lab, working with talented filmmakers who are not only curious about impact filmmaking but deeply committed to using their craft to drive meaningful change.

One of the key insights from this experience is that impact-driven storytelling isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about fostering real-world action. New research suggests that taking action can actually shape beliefs and deepen engagement, rather than the other way around. This shift in understanding reinforces the power of storytelling not just as a tool for education or advocacy but as a catalyst for tangible change.

The lab culminated in a pitching event where each project presented its vision and strategic plan for an impact campaign, demonstrating the depth of thought and commitment behind their work. Seeing these stories take shape with clear pathways for impact has been an inspiring reminder of the role media can play in driving meaningful change.

I would like to extend my gratitude to @pnina_halfon_lang , Nilly Kalmar, prof. Maayan Agmon, Ziv Nave, @libbylenkinski , @copro___ , @impact_kayama , @gesher_multicultural_film_fund , @albi__world , @newisraelfund , @goethe_institut_israel , the incredible participants, and the engaged audience who attended the Pitching Event. It’s been an honor to contribute to this growing field, and I look forward to seeing these projects make their mark.

@mayeremm , @anatnir , @mayashekel , @freshevia , @_moosh_studio , @sharonluzon , @astar_goldberg , @sharonyaish , @yael2323 , @daromaproductions, Hila Medalia, Mariel Ostrower, @saharule , @yaulti , @alina___alexa

📷: Guy Hammel

#ImpactFilmmaking #StorytellingForChange #SustainableFuture #CreativeImpact #FilmForGood

On Location: Documenting the Jordan River through immersive 360° visuals

As the winter rains replenish the Jordan River, the team at One Atmosphere Productions has been on location, capturing 360° visuals for our immersive documentary exploring the intersection of climate change and this ancient ecological meeting point.

Collaborating with VR Cinematographer Barak Brinker, we have traveled both north and south, documenting two distinct realities—the flowing upper Jordan River and the dwindling flow of this ancient waterway as it approaches the lowest place on Earth—the Dead Sea.

While this film honors the Jordan River’s rich ecological history, it also confronts the harsh realities of its current role on the frontlines of climate change and conflict. Our goal is to inspire a deeper connection to the natural world and spark meaningful conversations around environmental stewardship—both personal and collective.

In the coming weeks, we’ll continue refining our immersive experience prototype, blending interactivity with cinematic storytelling. We’re excited to share updates and can’t wait to bring this transformative experience to life.

#JordanReWILD #JordanXR #TheClimateDiplomat #ImpactFilmmaking #ClimateChange #Rewilding

The team at One Atmosphere is fully immersed in crafting the virtual worlds for our upcoming immersive documentary.

Alongside this work, we are actively scouting new filming locations to authentically capture the Jordan River’s story. By exploring the river’s deep ecological past, this project highlights its enduring significance as a vital waterway and its critical role in a world of changing climates.

Follow @oneatmosphereproductions and stay tuned for more updates on our progress!

#ImpactFilms #OneAtmosphere #VirtualReality #ClimateStory #ImpactProduction #ImmersiveStorytelling #EnvironmentalImpact #JordanReWILD

Six years ago, the production of “The Great”—an underwater 360-VR film—became a reality, offering a unique lens on one of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures, the great white shark. The project was driven by a mission to reshape perceptions, moving beyond the image of a ‘man-eating monster’ to reveal a powerful yet vulnerable animal. By collaborating with local researchers and marine biologists, we showcased the beauty and tragedy of underwater ecosystems increasingly at risk from overfishing and habitat loss.

Today, the team at One Atmosphere Impact Productions starts a new immersive project focused on climate change, water, and the Jordan River—an ancient waterway under immense environmental pressure. This upcoming immersive documentary explores our ancient water origins, using interactive storytelling elements and an intimate journey into understanding the climate of change.

Watch “The Great” official trailer above, check our behind-the-scenes report (link in bio) and follow @oneatmosphereproductions for updates.

@pacific_fleet @keren_makor @institutfrancais_israel @goethe_institut_israel

Just before tensions escalated in the north, our team had the opportunity to explore the Jordan River and its surrounding landscapes, scouting potential filming locations for our upcoming Jordan XR project.

As we gear up to start producing a prototype in the coming weeks, we’re actively expanding collaborations with industry partners, artists, and academic researchers. Stay tuned for updates as we bring together diverse perspectives to shape this compelling journey.

This immersive documentary will explore the life and challenges of one of the world’s most sacred rivers—a site at the crossroads of climate change and conflict. Do you see a potential alignment between your organization and this initiative? DM us to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.

@yonatanmanevich @wild_evi @keren_makor @institutfrancais_israel
#JordanReWILD #JordanXR #ImmersiveMedia #JordanRiver #NoticeWater #ClimateChange #EnvironmentalStorytelling #FilmScouting #NatureConservation #ClimateAction #StorytellingForImpact

An Ecological Meeting Point of Africa, Europe and Asia📍🌍🦣

During a recent field trip, we had the opportunity to scout the Ubeidiya prehistoric site, one of the most significant archaeological locations in the world. Dating back 1.6 to 1.5 million years, Ubeidiya stands as the second-oldest known site of early human presence outside Africa, revealing a crucial chapter in the story of human evolution.

As we walked the grounds where mammoths once roamed, hippos waded, and saber-toothed cats prowled, the evidence unearthed by researchers came alive, telling the story of an ancient ecosystem teeming with life and serving as a meeting point for species from three different continents.

But Ubeidiya is more than just a window into the past; it’s a poignant reminder of the natural and cultural landscapes we have today and what they could become for the people who will call it ‘home’ in the future.

Our immersive documentary project will explore this profound connection between humans and water, highlighting the ongoing efforts to rewild the Jordan River and protect irreplaceable sites like Ubeidiya for future generations.

Join us on this journey of discovery. Follow @OneAtmosphereProductions to learn more, and stay tuned for exciting updates.

#JordanRewild #ImpactCampaign #Ubeidiya #CulturalHeritage #Conservation #Science #Sustainability #Archaeology #EarlyHumans #HistoricalLandscapes #HumanEvolution #MiddleEastArchaeology #AncientEcosystems

We had a fascinating and fruitful week at the @newimages.festival Forum des images XR Development Market in Paris, where we had the opportunity to present our immersive VR Jordan River project to the European market for the first time.

We're thrilled to share that decision-makers from France, Germany, Israel, Luxembourg, Latin America, Denmark, and the Netherlands have shown interest in our XR impact project. This demonstrates the strong global appeal of harnessing new technology to tackle environmental and peacebuilding challenges. The widespread enthusiasm reinforces the potential of immersive storytelling to build awareness and inspire action on urgent issues like rewilding the Jordan River.

We're grateful for the new friends and fellow professionals we met during the market and the outstanding work showcased throughout the festival!

We're deeply appreciative of the unwavering support from the @keren_makor / Makor Media: Stories and New Technologies Lab, the French Institute (@institutfrancais_israel), and their teams and supporters, who facilitated our project attendance at the conference and created a welcoming, resource-rich environment for connecting with like-minded professionals from the XR industry.

@yonatanmanevich | @amitgoren5 | @niru_arashi | Vicky Cohen | @gllmngt | Ellen Kuo | @sonkekirchhof | Michelle Feuerlicht | Yoav Yair | @jumana_saad | @urban_heat_ | @nofar.laor | Yair Bartal | goethe institute | Reichman University

Despite the ongoing situation in our troubled region, we're more energized than ever to bring the story of the Jordan River to life, emphasizing the urgent need for climate action and the incredible potential for ecological restoration.

We invite you to learn more about our work and connect with us through our social channels or website: @1atmospherex - www.1atmosphereX.com.

#XRforImpact #Rewilding #EnvironmentalPeacebuilding #NewNarratives #ImpactFirst #JordanRiver #ClimateAction #VR #XR #NewImagesMarket

Bringing The Jordan River to Europe: Our climate XR project is on its way to Paris!

We are delighted to announce that our Climate XR impact project has been selected to participate in the @newimages.festival XR Development Market in Paris.

If you share our passion for leveraging XR technology to address global challenges, we welcome the opportunity to connect during the event. Please reach out to schedule a meeting, and let's explore how we can collaborate to drive meaningful change together.

On behalf of @oneatmosphereproductions and the team, we would like to thank The French Institue for its kind support.

#XR #NewImages #ImmersiveStories #TheJordanRiver #ClimateChange #NewMedia #NewStories #ImpactFirst

After months of anticipation, I'm thrilled to finally share that One Atmosphere's ( @1atmospherex ) Jordan River Interactive VR project has been awarded an XR production grant!

Over the past few months, I've been fortunate to be part of the @keren_makor Climate Crisis XR Media Lab.

Teaming up with the talented XR Creative Technologist @yonatanmanevich , we've embarked on a journey to tell the story of a river on the frontline of climate change in new and innovative ways.
At the heart of the project lies a fundamental conviction: VR is not merely a technological tool but rather a powerful catalyst for changing perspectives and narratives.
Through this immersive experience, we hope to inspire local communities, decision-makers, and opinion-shapers to champion the rewilding efforts of the Jordan River, a waterway of profound importance to millions worldwide.

Despite the river’s unfortunate loss of over 90% of its historic flow in just a few decades, we hold firm to the belief that with dedication and collaboration, we can rejuvenate the Jordan River, restoring its vitality and ecological balance while embracing sustainability as the key to a better future for all.

This journey wouldn't have been possible without the passion and commitment of @amitgoren5 , @niru_arashi Vicki Cohen, project mentors Ellen Kuo, Sönke Kirchhof, Michelle Feuerlicht and all the team at @keren_makor and their wonderful partners: @mifal_hapais , @institutfrancais_israel , The French Embassy, @goethe_institut_israel , @newimages.festival @forumdesimages , School of Sustainability, and Advanced Reality Lab (ARL) - @reichmanuni . Their support has been invaluable in bringing our vision to life, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

Congratulations to the winning teams, and stay tuned for further updates as we persist in exploring the boundaries of impact storytelling 🌍

@copro___ , @diversioncinema , shop Media Group, @atlasv.io , @pnina_halfon_lang , @mayashekel , @kobyg , Prof. Yoav Yair, Moosh Studio, Olivier Delpoux, Hannah Bellicha, Camille Lopato , Fred Colhuer, Hannah LOUÉ, Emma Schicker, @jumana_saad , Yair Bartal, Shaked Orenstein , @nofar.laor , @urban_heat_

I had the great honor of moderating the 2024 CoPro Impact Lab Final Pitching event. Having participated in the Impact Producers training last year, it was delighting to welcome five outstanding documentary projects and their planned impact campaigns.

@copro___ continues to pioneer in the realm of impact filmmaking, and it's been an absolute pleasure to witness their innovative approach firsthand.

Collaborating with exceptional filmmakers who share a common vision of using storytelling as a tool for measurable change has been incredibly inspiring.

We're excited about the potential of these projects to make a real difference in the world, and we're grateful for the opportunity to be part of this journey. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to support impactful storytelling initiatives! 🌟🚀🌍

@1atmospherex @pnina_halfon_lang @nillyka michalhaggiag @gesher_multicultural_film_fund @newisraelfund @usembassyjlm
📸: @danielhanoch

#ImpactFilmmaking #StorytellingForChange #CoProImpactLab #OneAtmosphere #DocumentaryFilms

After over three years at EcoPeace Middle East as the Regional Program Lead for Climate and Water Diplomacy, I'm excited to share that I’m embarking on a new chapter.

I'm thankful to the organization and team for the opportunity to contribute and grow professionally. This period has been filled with immense learning and fulfillment, as I've had the honor of working with some of the most inspiring and committed individuals, helping to build a community of hundreds of young environmental leaders across the region.

I'm deeply grateful for my contributions to key environmental initiatives, such as the Jordan River's rewilding, the revival of the Dead Sea, and advocating for a Green Blue Deal in the Middle East. These actions have advanced sustainability across our troubled region while emphasizing the essential nature of collaborative efforts.

Earlier in 2024, EcoPeace, alongside Women Wage Peace and Women of the Sun, received a well-deserved nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize, marking a significant milestone as it approaches its 30th anniversary of regional cooperation and environmental peacebuilding.

In the weeks ahead, I'll be able to share more about my upcoming projects, all centered around building bridges between the field of impact media and the nonprofit sector. Keep in touch and stay tuned 🌍

#NewBeginnings #ImpactFilmmaking #EnvironmentalAdvocacy #NotAGoodbye #aSeeYouSoon #ImpactProduction #StayTuned

Returning to Aqaba's coral reefs after ten years was enlightening. The reefs here seemed better than a decade ago, but they still face formidable threats—climate change, rising ocean temperatures, coastal development, and pollution.

Recent research underscores rising Gulf of Aqaba temperatures due to climate change. Intriguingly, select coral species exhibit robust resistance to warming.

Aqaba and Eilat's reefs are ecologically interconnected. Ocean currents facilitate gene flow, enhancing their resilience. This highlights the urgent need for environmental cross-border cooperation and collaborative action on climate change.

Our #SharedResponsibility is clear. Champion conservation efforts, reduce our carbon footprint, reduce pollution and safeguard these vital ecosystems.

#UnderwaterPhotography #AqabaReefs #CoralConservation #ClimateAction #LightPollution #MarinePollution #ClimateAction #RedSea #AqabaReefs #EilatReefs #MarineEcology #SharedEnvironment #CoralReefs #DareToDiveDeep

Of Deers and Wildfires

A few years back, I was photographing the magnificent Colorado Rockies in the US. One day, I encountered a wild deer navigating cautiously in the bright daylight, indifferent to my presence, and grazing over the meadows. A behavior that is crucial in battling climate change.

Grazing serves as a natural defense, crucial for minimizing wildfires, as it helps control the growth of plants and grasses. Herbivores like deer eat dry grass and shrubs, reducing the amount of potential fuel for fires. This controlled grazing creates natural barriers that can slow the spread of flames and lower the risk of large and destructive mega-fires. By keeping a healthy balance between plants and animals, we can better protect our forests and landscapes from the threat of wildfires and sequester more carbon in the ground and out of the atmosphere.

Understanding the ecological interplay between herbivores like deer and wildfire prevention underscored the importance of wildlife in maintaining the ecosystem's resilience. Healthy forests need healthy grazing and a healthy deer population. Indeed, nature has a vital role in addressing the planetary challenges all fellow humans share. It can rebound, should we let it.

#ColoradoRockies #Wildfires #Grazing #NatureBasedSolutions #PreserveOurPlanet #WildlifeProtection #WorkingWithNature #ResilientEcosystems #ClimateActionNow

In 2015, I spent most of my days on the remote island of Cocos in Costa Rica, working with the DeepSee Submersible. There was an exceptional dive site we called “Everest,” where we used to find black corals.

Black corals have been found to have remarkable longevity, with some individual colonies estimated to be over 4,000 years old, making them some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.

This image was taken by researcher and underwater photographer Octavio Aburto in Cabo Pulmo (Mexico) when we took a two-month break from visiting Cocos Island to join a @natgeo expedition in remote islands in Mexico. When I returned to Cocos and had a chance to dive and document these black corals, there were all gone due to the harsh combination of the El-Niño phenomena and climate change.

The escalating impact of the climate crisis, characterized by rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, poses a dire threat to the survival of corals, endangering these exceptional organisms and their crucial ecological roles.

This week (June 2023) saw the hottest global temperature ever recorded. This preliminary global record serves as a further testament to the alarming pace at which our planet is warming. The convergence of the natural climate phenomenon El Niño, known for its warming impact, compounds the ongoing climate crisis, contributing to the accelerated rise in temperatures.

📸 @octavioaburto
📍Eastern Tropical Pacific

#ElNiño #ClimateChange #HottestDayIn2023SoFar #Submersibles #UnderseaHunter #Exploration #NationalGeographic #PristineSeas #BlackCorals #WarmingSeas #EasternTropicalPacific #CocosIsland #IslaDelCoco #CostaRica #Mexico #PacificOcean #DareToDiveDeep

Studies have shown that spending time in nature has a profound impact on our well-being, especially when it comes to climate anxiety. When we surround ourselves with the beauty and tranquility of forests, our stress levels decrease, and a sense of calmness settles within us. Nature acts as a natural remedy, soothing our minds and providing respite from the overwhelming concerns about our planet's future.

Moreover, scientific research reveals that connecting with nature strengthens our resilience and fosters a sense of hope. As we witness the intricate web of life in forests, we are reminded of the remarkable regenerative power of our Earth. Forests, with their ability to absorb and store carbon dioxide, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change. By immersing ourselves in nature, we deepen our understanding of the interconnectedness of nature and cultivate a desire to protect and restore our planet.

#Forest #ForestBathing #ClimateAnxiety #ConnectWithNature #DareToDiveDeep

Mangroves stand as nature's guardians, fortifying our coastlines against the wrath of storms, erosion, and rising sea levels. Through their intricate root systems, they form a formidable barrier, effectively dissipating the force of powerful waves and preserving our vulnerable communities.

However, their ecological importance extends far beyond coastal protection. These lush forests harbor an extraordinary wealth of biodiversity. They serve as vital nurseries for a diverse range of species, from captivating marine life to fascinating avian inhabitants. Mangroves provide essential habitats, offering shelter, sustenance, and breeding grounds, making them an indispensable component of thriving ecosystems.

What's even more remarkable is the pivotal role that mangroves play in mitigating climate change. As exceptional carbon sinks, they have the capacity to absorb and store substantial amounts of greenhouse gases. By preserving mangroves, we actively contribute to the reduction of global warming's impact and pave the way towards a more sustainable future. 🌎

#Mangroves #Aerial #ClimateChange #Biodiversity #Conservation #DareToDiveDeep

The remarkable Dendronephthya hemprichi, AKA a Tree Coral, thriving in the depths of the Northern Red Sea. These soft corals lack a hard skeleton, allowing them to gracefully adapt to the ocean currents. Their colonies consist of polyps with tentacles that capture tiny plankton, sustaining their survival.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this coral is its ability to retract its polyps during the day, preserving energy and shielding itself from harsh sunlight. As night falls, the coral extends its polyps to maximize feeding opportunities under the cover of darkness.

Amidst the challenges posed by climate change, the Gulf of Aqaba and Eilat provide a crucial refuge for corals like Dendronephthya hemprichi. They stand as beacons of hope amidst rising ocean temperatures.

#DendronephthyaHemprichi #TreeCoral #NorthernRedSea #CoralRefuge #ClimateChange #Conservation #ResilientCorals #GulfofAqaba #Eilat #ProtectOurOceans #SustainableFuture #DareToDiveDeep

Thank you, @afo_olomouc for an outstanding event of media and science.

This year, I had the pleasure of giving a talk about Underwater VR productions and participating in the panel "Beyond Imagination: What Can We Learn Thanks to Virtual Reality?" to discuss innovative trends in Virtual Reality production with inspiring VR creators like @linareinsbakken , @onjamoravka and Tom Millen.

A big thanks to @ivana.for @doma_vona @_magicians_assistant @ondrakazik and the fantastic AFO team for bringing together creators from all around the world to foster new collaborations and celebrate science and arts.

Congrats to all the winning projects at Camp4Science 🎉

#AFO #Olomouc #CzechRepuclic #Factual #Documentary #Science

As apex predators, great white sharks are perfectly adapted to their environment and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ocean ecosystem.

Nevertheless, popular media largely misunderstood and vilified these magnificent predators. The truth is sharks are not mindless killers, and attacks on humans are extremely rare.

#GreatWhiteSharks #GuadalupeIsland #Mexico #OceanPredators #CarcharodonCarcharias #DareToDiveDeep

While traveling Baja California, I had the privilege of capturing the playful and inquisitive nature of the sea lions of Los Islotes. Scientifically speaking, these animals share many similarities with humans, particularly in terms of their social behavior and communication.

Studies have shown that sea lions possess remarkable cognitive abilities, including recognizing individuals, forming social bonds, and even demonstrating self-awareness. They also communicate with each other through a variety of vocalizations and body language, much like humans do.

It's important to remember that these incredible animals are not just tourist attraction but essential members of their ecosystem. By understanding the similarities between humans and sea lions, we can better appreciate and protect their habitats.

#LosIslotes #BajaCalifornia #Mexico #SeaLions #Conservation #Science #DareToDiveDeep

🌍 Friends in Israel, please check out an exciting opportunity below 🌍

Four years ago, I returned to Israel after several years abroad and signed up for EcoPeace's Water Diplomacy program for Israeli, Palestinian, and Jordanian young professionals. For the first time in my life, I had a chance to connect and meet with our neighbors and discuss our shared future and environment in this conflict-ridden reality in the Middle East.

At one of the lectures, an image of our shared aquifers came up. Looking at it, human borders seem to lose meaning. Nature knows no human boundaries. What's happening with our neighbors can affect us, and vice versa. Yet how can we talk about cooperation in the midst of conflict? Well, we start with climate and water.

Being part of the MENA region, Israel and its neighbors are some of the most water-scarce parts of the world and a climate Hot Spot. Specifically, Israel is experiencing double the global average temperature rise, driving the Middle East toward an inhabitable future.

In this void, new voices arise. Voices of ambitious and inspiring young leaders who would not accept the current situation and seek new ways to change this reality. Today, we are growing a community of environmental peacebuilders keen to create a shared and more equal future for both humans and nature, and we invite you to join us.

In late 2023, we will open our 5th cohort of EcoPeace's Climate Diplomats program (ages 20-35). I welcome you to join me on this journey and submit your application:
bit.ly/3VuyPyw

Feel free to DM me if you want to get a link directly

If you want to read more, check out our website:
www.waterdiplomacy.net/climate-diplomats

#SharedClimate #SharedWater #SharedFuture

Let me tell you a short story. A few years back, I was free-diving the Red Sea with a good friend I hadn't seen for a long time. We were out for the day filming and photographing underwater for a project we collaborated on.

We were hoping to film some footage of Bottlenose Dolphins up close, but as it is in nature, things are unexpected and don't always go as planned, so we spent hours in the water with no fins in sight.

Eventually, we gave up and decided to swim back to shore. We sat on the sand and removed our masks and fins, ready to call it a day. But then, an air blow sound cut sharp behind us. A small pack of dolphins approached the shallows. I grabbed a camera, left my fins behind, and jumped back into the water–taking a few snapshots of the brief yet exciting encounter.

I couldn't stop thinking, what if we waited a few more minutes before heading out? Could I have gotten closer with my fins on? Undoubtedly, patience is a vital tool, but so is embracing imperfection and unmet expectations. I didn't get the shot I needed that day but I got plenty of great ones several months later. And when I look at this picture, what I remember the most is the liberating feeling of putting away the camera–which can sometimes become a barrier between one and reality–and being present and looking nature in the eye. There has never been a more pressing time to do so.

📸: @davidgirsh

#BottlenosDolphins #RedSea #Freediving #Underwater #Eilat #DareToDiveDeep

The Island of the Whites.

📍Some 240 km off the Pacific Mexican coasts

#Guadalupe #GreatWhite #Island #Sharks #BajaCalifornia #Mexico #Aerial #DareToDiveDeep

A Domino Effect

Some 80 km south of the island of Cuba, there is an oceanic 'time machine' to how the Caribbean Sea used to be like in the past. It is called Jardines de la Reina.

One of the indicators that make this place so extraordinary and abundant with corals and wildlife is an animal humans have demonized for hundreds of years–the shark.

Sharks are considered 'keystone' species meaning that without them, the ecosystems around them could become unstable and face possible collapse–igniting a chain of events that will disturb the balance of the oceans – the life support system of the planet.

Interestingly, Fidel Castro's passion for scuba diving has led to the protection of the archipelago. And while the rest of the Caribbean has been developed and tourism boomed in its waters, Cuba kept preserving their reefs and sharks.

#Cuba #MPAs #JardinesDeLaReina #Sharks #KeyStoneSpecies #Caribbean #Ocean #DareToDiveDeep

#ImpactFirst

In the past three months, I had the opportunity of joining a new and innovative Impact Lab by @copro___ in Israel.

Throughout the lab, we had a chance to meet experts in this growing field and build a strategy for a future impact campaign for a new natural history series by @amberjackfilms and @sipurstudios.

As an industry, I hope to see more production companies prioritizing #ChangeMaking as part of their creative work. I believe this is the kind of leadership we need to see not only in the world of non-profits but also in the governmental and private sectors.

As an Impact Producer—actively working in both the non-profit and media fields—it excites me to see how storytellers and creatives put #ImpactFirst and use their skills to inspire change and push humanity forward.

I would like to thank the CoPro team @nillyka, @pnina_halfon_lang, @gesher_multicultural_film_fund, @newisraelfund, Kayama and Professor Maayan Agmon , Danielle Turkov and Amy Shepherd from @thinkfilmimpact, the Tel Aviv Cinematheque, the Tel Aviv Municipality, @yonatanir, Ariel Weisbrod Noam Shalev, and all my talented peers for this unique opportunity.

The world needs more impact-driven stories to help accelerate the change our planet urgently needs. As storytellers, we have a crucial role in addressing the global challenges ahead.

#ImpactLab @1atmospherex #CoPro #ImpactFirst #DareToDiveDeep #NaturalHistory #Wildlife #Conservation #ImpactDriven #Storytelling

The Problem with Deforestation

The forests of Costa Rica are home to four world-known American Monkeys. One of them is the Capuchin Monkey.

His kind lives in tropical forests in groups of 6-40 members and calls the Costa Rican canopy “home.” Though the country has achieved international recognition for its reforestation efforts—after the low 40% drop in its original forest cover in 1987— some areas still suffer from a monoculture of palm oil plantations, which can look fine on the surface and yet poses a series problem.

Costa Rica holds some of the wildest and most biodiverse places on the planet. And even though many wild places need protection, some have a higher biodiversity value than others.

This mother Capuchin Monkey—as well as its forest neighbors—has a good reason for concern. She needs a diversity of trees, and monoculture poses a new threat. It is time for wildlife protection. We need more natural reserves, protected areas, and a more robust understanding of our shared future with the natural world.

#Deforestation #CostaRica #CapuchinMonkey #Tropical #Rainforest #Biodiversity #Wildlife #Conservation #NatureReserves #30by30 #DareToDiveDeep

Today, 8 years ago, I met the largest animals to ever live on this planet for the first time.

The Blue Whale is the heaviest animal ever known to have lived. By comparison, the most giant known dinosaur weighed up to 90 tonnes, estimated at about half the weight of the largest blue whales.

For 2023, I wish us all a positive, meaningful, and fruitful year full of “firsts” in the wild.

#SomewhereInThePacific #ThatsaFirst #BlueWhale #OpenOcean #NewYear #2023 #DareToDiveDeep

A Former Neighbor

Every year, from March to June, Mango trees bring sweet fruits to both humans and wildlife in Costa Rica. Back in the day, when I lived in the mountains of Rio Oro, the landlord of the farm I lived on planted a wide variety of trees in an effort to reforest his land.

An impressive mango tree outside my bedroom would attract Keel-billed toucans—a species found in tropical lowland evergreen and secondary forests. The tree allowed me to observe and curiously capture this magnificent bird up close. And at times, with a bit of luck, the toucans' curiosity would reflect.

#UpInTheCanopy #CostaRica #Rainforest #Deforestation #KeepItGreen #Toucan #KeelBilledToucans #Wildlife #DareToDiveDeep

A few weeks ago, we launched EcoPeace's new Climate Diplomacy program for a new cohort of over 100 Jordanian, Palestinian and Israeli young professionals.

Our Israeli group met for their first national workshop and started their journey into environmental peacebuilding. In the upcoming year, we will create cross-border connections, learn about our shared climate reality, and work together to develop new projects and initiatives to promote climate action in the world's most water-scarce region and a #HotSpot of climate change.

#ClimateDiplomacy #EcoPeace #MiddleEast #ClimateHasNoBorders #WaterCannotWait #ClimateChange #MENA #EnvironmentalPeacebuilding

A Humpback Greeting 👋

Off of coasts of Baja California Sur—at the Sea of Cortez—humpback whales arrive every year after their long ocean journey. They will be traveling up to 48,000 km from their feeding grounds in the cold waters of the Polar regions—where they spend the summer—south to the waters of Baja California in order to give birth, breed, and nurse their young.

#HumpbackWhales #BajaCalifornia #Mexico #Whales #Migration #DareToDiveDeep

A Blue Marble.

A few years back, I was living and working in Baja California. My job brought me to one of the most unique and remote islands in the Pacific - Guadalupe, the island of the great white sharks.

I had the chance to visit many times, and on one of them we had produced a virtual reality experience. Shooting in 360–and especially underwater—provides a fresh, personal and a first-hand perspective. Our goal was to present the mythological man-eating machine in a new light and from a new angle.

This image was taken with a 360 imaging system with 6 cameras pointing to all directions by the talented @jm_fnf

#TheGreatVR #GreatWhiteSharks #VR #Underwater #GuadalupeIsland #Mexico #PacificFleet #WorthMoreAlive #DareToDiveDeep

Why do Mobula rays jump?
In the south of Baja California, Mobula (Munkiana) tends to jump acrobatically on the sea surface. Scientists suspect they do so as a form of communication, to show off for a potential mate, or to get rid of parasites. For a short time of the year, they will put up a show that can be heard across the beaches of the Sea of Cortez.

#MobulaMunikiana #BajaCaliforania #Mexico #Rays #DareToDiveDeep

Our new Climate Diplomacy program at EcoPeace Middle East will launch in one week!

After a long and competitive selection process, the Israeli group will undergo extensive climate and water diplomacy training, develop negotiation skills, and learn about effective communications and our regional climate reality in the Middle East. They will be a part of a larger cohort of 150 Jordanian, Palestinian, and Israeli young professionals keen to learn more about our shared environment and become agents of change for the region.

The Middle East is a climate “Hot Spot,” and Israel specifically is experiencing a double temperature rise compared to the global average. With this program, we hope that emerging environmentalists will take action on climate and water and promote regional cooperation.

Congratulations to all the selected participants!

#ClimateKnowsNoBorders #WaterCannotWait #EcoPeace #MiddleEast #ClimateDiplomacy #NewCohort

Seasons change at the Jerusalem mountains 🌲

#Autumn #Jerusalem #JerusalemMountains #Timelapse #Aerial #Outdoors

Jackson Wild 2022: in a nutshell

Last week I had the great honor of attending @jacksonwildorg as a Summit Fellow at the National Park Neusiedler See-Seewinkel in Burgenland, Austria.

This media summit is a meeting point for storytellers and industry professionals, emphasizing impact, science, and wildlife conservation. I was thrilled to speak with so many creatives and environmentalists from around the globe who are deeply concerned with the state of our planet and are actively working and dedicating their lives to changing the status quo. Jackson genuinely feels like a community where we can celebrate creative success, embrace a sense of urgency and action, and provide space to acknowledge vulnerability, such as climate anxiety and the profound emotional effect the loss of nature brings to our everyday lives.

During this summit of global storytellers, I saw a glimpse of the power that lies in our diversity. Just like in wild ecosystems, the richness and the complexity of nature are what make this planet so full of beauty and worth fighting for.

Storytellers can indeed drive profound change—we see that more and more every day in measurable terms—whether through a film, an XR experience, a podcast, or a game. It truly excites me to see what new creative ways we may find on our path toward changing mindsets and driving a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

I would like to thank @a.shaw.jw, @orsydney, @Melanie Judd, Lisa Samford, and the whole Jackson Wild team for providing me this generous and unique opportunity, to @andy_byatt and @yonatanir from @amberjackfilms and to my Summit Fellows of 2022, for the beautiful time and inspiration. I’m confident this is only the beginning of new and exciting collaborations toward better relationships and stewardship with and for our planet.

Images by @jacksonwild

#JacksonWild #SummitFellowship #2209 #WildlifeFilmmaking #NaturalHistory #Impact #Conservation #Science #Planet #Sustainability #MediaSummit #FilmFestival #XR #VR #NewMedia #NeusiedlerSee #NationalPark #Burgenland #Austria #2022

Over Jungles and Oceans

📍Cocos Island, Costa Rica
🎥: @1atmospherex

#EasternTropicalPacific #IslaDelCoco #Jungles #Ocean #Aerial #DareToDiveDeep

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