Regenerative Solutions, Finding Common Ground on Earth Day

Jacob Devaney
3 min readApr 19, 2024

As Earth Day approaches, it’s time to shift the narrative from doomsday forecasts to solutions and inspiration for the health of our planet. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges facing our environment, focusing on actionable solutions can have a profound impact on our mental outlook while also leading to positive change. This year independent media constructive political organizing and inspired communities stand at the crossroads between ancient wisdom and contemporary technology to launch a global movement.

One inspiring example of this shift towards solutions the documentary film, Common Ground, which is set to screen in over 75 cities on April 22nd, Earth Day. Following the trail blazed by its predecessor, Kiss the Ground Film, Common Ground promises to captivate audiences with its powerful message of change and renewal. Featuring renowned actors like Jason Momoa and Woody Harrelson, the film delves deep into the heart of our broken food system, uncovering a web of money, power, and politics that has led to its demise.

“THAT RARE DOCUMENTARY THAT ACTUALLY PROPOSES SOLUTIONS…PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS.” – Film Threat

By weaving together journalistic exposé with deeply personal stories from those on the front lines of the food movement, Common Ground shines a light on the injustices that have plagued our current farming system. From the exploitation of farmers to the environmental degradation caused by industrial agriculture, the film pulls no punches in its portrayal of the challenges we face. However, amidst the darkness, there is also hope.

Filmmakers Josh and Rebecca Tickell with Actor Woody Harrelson

Food does not only equate to health and nourishment for us, the way that it is grown also represents health to the soil, which sequesters carbon from the atmosphere, the water, the birds, bees, and our entire ecosystem. Agriculture is central to restoring balance not only to plant, animal, and humans but it also relieves economic, social, and political challenges. Though the solution is as old as dirt, yet soil remediation and regenerative farming are rarely part of the discussion when it comes to ways that each one of us can make a huge impact in healing our environment.

Farmers are indeed super heroes who feed us all.

The documentary profiles a diverse array of farmers — white, black, and indigenous — who are pioneering alternative “regenerative” models of agriculture. These farmers are not only working to balance the climate and save our health but also to stabilize America’s economy in the process. Their stories serve as a beacon of hope in a world fraught with uncertainty, demonstrating that change is not only possible but within reach.

What sets Common Ground apart is its emphasis on unity and collaboration. By highlighting the shared goals and struggles of farmers from all walks of life, the film underscores the importance of coming together to tackle the challenges facing our planet. In a time of division and polarization, this message of common ground is more important than ever.

Common Ground has risen to the top 10 limited release documentary films of 2023, has received 6 festival awards, and is awards-eligible “For Your Consideration: Best Documentary Feature 2023” for the Academy Awards.

But Common Ground is more than just a film — it’s a call to action. As we celebrate Earth Day and reflect on the state of our planet, it’s crucial that we move beyond awareness of the problems/challenges and into meaningful action/change. Whether it’s supporting local farmers, advocating for policy reform, or making changes in our own lives, each of us has a role to play in building a more regenerative future.

So as April 22nd approaches, let’s embrace the spirit of Earth Day with optimism and determination. Let’s take inspiration from the stories shared in Common Ground and work together to create a healthier, more vibrant planet for future generations. And let’s remember that even in the face of daunting challenges, there is always hope — hope for a better tomorrow, and hope for a brighter future for our planet and all who call it home.

To learn more about Common Ground and find a screening near you, visit their website. Together, we can make a difference.

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Jacob Devaney

Cultural-Creative, Media-Maker, Dreamer, Musician. Technology, Art, Science, Health, Spirituality, Culture, Community, Environment. UNIFY Co-Founder