Hanley Sustainability Institute

By Mark Gokavi

The basic elements of life – earth, air, water and fire – are forces of nature that change the planet’s ecosystem, but so can people. The documentary by photographer James Balog, “The Human Element,” will be shown Nov. 7 in the Kennedy Union ballroom along with a panel discussion and dinner co-sponsored by Green Energy Ohio and the Hanley Sustainability Institute.

“An imbalance in one element leads to an imbalance in another,” Balog said. “People are the only element that can choose to restore balance. And that gives me hope.”

University of Dayton faculty, staff and students and the public are invited to the event from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7. The event is free, as is parking after 4:30 p.m. in UD lots. Registration for students is requested by Nov. 5.

Organizers said attendees will discuss with UD and regional environmental and energy leaders how the film challenges each of us to work together to address climate change and conserve energy in the greater Dayton community and in our world.

Green Energy Ohio previously partnered with HSI in the Growing Local Solar Workshop 2019.

The documentary, which has been shown at more than two dozen film festivals, captures the lives of everyday Americans on the front lines of climate change.

“Our deeds are leaving their imprint in the fabric of time,” Balog said. “And what I want to do is bring this story to life.”