Ritmos Climáticos

Program & Host Organization

Ritmos Climáticos is a grassroots initiative based in British Columbia. The program works to strengthen community connection and climate resilience through gatherings that blend facilitated dialogue, creative expression, and collective care practices.

Location & Scope

The initiative operates in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia and through an online community. Activities take place in rented spaces, parks, and other community settings, extending its reach across both in-person and digital environments.

Who It Serves

Ritmos Climáticos primarily serves underrepresented communities, including young adults and adults engaged in climate action or seeking supportive spaces to explore climate-related emotions and community connection.

Climate & Mental Health Focus

The initiative responds to community disconnectedness and the emotional impacts of the broader polycrisis. It addresses eco-anxiety, climate justice concerns, and the need for supportive relationships that help people navigate uncertainty and mobilize in culturally meaningful ways.

Activities & Format

Activities are offered monthly in a mixed model, with some recurring participants and others attending occasionally. Sessions last about two hours and include facilitated group dialogue, art-based activities, mindfulness practices, outdoor gatherings, advocacy-oriented discussions, and community events. The program links personal reflection with broader climate justice and resilience efforts.

Inclusion & Accessibility

The initiative uses community co-design and consultations to guide its approach. It aims to create culturally relevant and accessible spaces for people facing structural barriers, though no specific accessibility practices were described.

Outcomes & Evidence

The program seeks to cultivate collective care, provide consistent spaces for community connection, and build shared resilience. Medium-term outcomes involve strengthening emotional resilience within climate action. Long-term goals include mobilizing structural solutions led by underrepresented communities. Evaluation is conducted collaboratively with Youth Harbour and funders. The approach is informed by Indigenous knowledge, UBC Climate Hub resources, and networks of grassroots organizations.

Guiding Principles

Ritmos Climáticos aligns with principles of climate literacy, emotional processing, optimism, social connection, nature bonding, emotional resilience, climate justice, trauma-informed thinking, community-led adaptation, and collective responsibility. These values guide its emphasis on cultural mobilization, artistic resistance, and community-rooted climate leadership.

Resources & Sustainability

The initiative operates with a $30,000 annual budget that supports a range of activities. It is funded through the Abundance Fellowship.

Team & Partners

Activities are co-facilitated by a team connected to academia, digital networks, and community organizations. Team members have backgrounds in climate justice and related fields.

Challenges & Context

Key challenges include securing resources, maintaining collective momentum, and building relationships with marginalized and influential groups. Broader systemic conditions rooted in colonialism and extractive governance shape the work.