Student research spotlight: the power of filmmaking for driving climate action
Posted on Tuesday 10 March 2026
At the University of York, we take pride in our students' dedication to research in the climate and environmental sphere. Following the recent Student Sustainability Research Conference (SSRC26) at the University of Leeds on 4 March, we are showcasing the incredible research presented by our students.
Weeraya Vichayaprasertkul (Min) is currently studying MSc Environmental Sustainability Education and Communication at the University of York. She is a climate change documentary filmmaker who presented one of her films “Lovely Garage Band” at the conference.
We asked Min to share more about herself, her research, and experience presenting at this year’s conference.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I'm Weeraya Vichayaprasertkul (Min), currently pursuing an MSc in Environmental Sustainability Education and Communication at the University of York. I am a climate change documentary filmmaker and environmental media producer dedicated to using strategic communication to drive climate action across Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Photo: Weeraya Vichayaprasertkul
What inspired you to pursue sustainability research and sustainability filmmaking?
Thailand and Southeast Asia are among the most climate-vulnerable regions globally. Despite facing severe economic impacts from droughts and floods, public awareness remains relatively low. This is partly because environmental media in Thailand often relies on translated international stories rather than local perspectives from grassroots environmentalists.
I wanted to bridge this gap by producing impactful media that educates and resonates with local audiences. I’ve always believed that while data and science tell us what is happening, stories tell us why we should care. One of my films, “Lovely Garbage Band”, was born from a desire to show that sustainability isn't just about high-level policy; it’s about the power of an ordinary person standing up to make a difference through waste management and music-proving that small, creative actions can inspire massive change.
Photos: "Lovely Garage Band" film, produced and directed by Weeraya Vichayaprasertkul
What was your experience presenting your film at SSRC26?
During the conference, I hosted a screening of my documentary, “Lovely Garbage Band,” which follows Indigenous children from a remote forest community in Thailand learning about nature through waste and music.
Although it was an intimate screening, I was heartened by the deep interest from the audience. A key highlight was receiving feedback from attendees who suggested scaling this documentary into an educational model for integrating Indigenous knowledge in other regions. Furthermore, it was inspiring to listen to fellow students and connect with people working across different fields. I am grateful for the opportunity to exchange ideas with others who are equally passionate about building a more sustainable future.
What do you hope to do in the future?
I want to empower the next generation to understand how impactful media can raise environmental awareness and advancing sustainable policies. My goal is to train at least 100 youth content creators annually across ASEAN through my organisation, EcoCupid.
Additionally, since environmental education is not yet strongly integrated into Thailand’s national curriculum, I aim to develop engaging and accessible learning programs, specifically by weaving Indigenous wisdom into environmental education.
Long-term, I aspire to become a university lecturer specialising in environmental communication, sharing the global insights and best practices I’ve gained during my time in the UK.
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A huge thanks to Min for sharing more about her research and experience presenting at the conference. Stay tuned for more stories showcasing the incredible work being done across our student community.