Jane Fonda, the Oscar-winning actress, is taking a stand on environmental issues in her new documentary, Gaslit. This film will make its world debut on February 5 at the Santa Barbara Film Festival. Fonda travels through Texas oilfields and along the Gulf Coast to highlight the impacts of liquefied natural gas (LNG) production.
Impacts of LNG Production
Gaslit aims to shed light on how LNG terminals affect local communities. An analysis released by the Sierra Club and Greenpeace USA reveals alarming statistics. Currently, LNG terminals are estimated to cause:
- 60 premature deaths annually
- $957 million in total health costs each year
If all planned terminals and expansion projects are implemented, these figures could rise to:
- 149 premature deaths
- $2.33 billion in health costs yearly
Concerns Over Environmental Impact
The Natural Resources Defense Council warns that LNG is not as clean or low-emission as often claimed. It emphasizes that LNG terminals often disrupt biodiversity hotspots and marine life due to ongoing cargo traffic. In contrast, proponents like The Center for LNG argue that U.S. natural gas is a reliable, low-carbon energy option.
Documentary Details
Gaslit is produced by Greenpeace USA and directed by Katie Camosy. Besides Fonda, the film features award-winning actress Connie Britton and Grammy-nominated musician Maggie Rogers. The trailer highlights Fonda’s journey through landscapes filled with oil derricks and LNG facilities, suggesting a grim reality for those living in the area.
Voices of the Frontline
The documentary showcases an “intimate and urgent portrait” of various community members, including fishing families, ranchers, and activists. These individuals come from diverse political backgrounds and unite to combat the threats posed by the LNG industry.
Community Commitment
Fonda passionately promises to advocate for these frontline communities, stating, “I will do everything in my power until the day I die to make sure people know what’s going on here.” She emphasizes that the LNG boom represents more than just economic opportunity—it’s a matter of justice and community survival.
Call to Action
Camosy emphasizes the necessity for the public to hear the stories of those directly affected by climate crises. Gaslit serves as both a rallying cry and a reflection on the ongoing struggle against fossil fuel companies. The filmmakers hope audiences leave with a sense of urgency and inspiration after witnessing these powerful narratives.
Gaslit is not just a film; it is a vital call for awareness and action regarding environmental issues affecting vulnerable communities along the Gulf Coast.
